Calling all 7th Grade students!!!
The time has come to design and build….
Your OWN compound machine.
Compound Machines are devices that contain two or more simple machines
to complete a task moving an object in an easier way by helping with force,
distance or direction.
Using household materials (recycled objects preferred to brand new) design
and create a compound machine that works to move an object in an easier
way.
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Must be a working COMPOUND machine
Must move an object and work repeatedly
Must perform a specific task of your choice
Must be of a practical nature so that it makes a task easier (by helping
with force, distance or direction)
You may work with a partner or alone
Recycled household materials preferred
Scale-model prototype size preferred
Prefer not to have any motors, electronics or chemicals – see teacher
if there are any questions.
A scientific report will accompany the actual machine (see sheet)
Past Ideas:
Automatic Pet Feeder
Pet Toy Launcher
Tree House Lift
Zipline Mail Box
Automatic Bed Maker
Pitching machine
Compound Machine Grade Sheet
Student:
Class:
Due Date:
Objective: to build a compound machine that accomplishes a task in an easier way.
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Weekly classroom deadlines were met
(10)
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Is a working Compound Machine
(20)
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Includes 2 or more simple machines
(ex: 2 lever count as 2 machines)
*Inclined planes must be used to LIFT something
*Screws holding a machine together do not count
(15)
Accomplishes a common household
task in an easier way
(10)
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 Shows innovation and originality in design
(10)
 Compound Machine works consistently
after repeated use
(10)
 All machines are correctly labeled with a
typed label
(10)
 All machines work together properly
(5)
 All machines are necessary to complete task
(5)
 Compound Machine has marketability by
showing ease of use
(5)
Total:
A
100-90
Master Inventor
B
89-80
Apprentice
C
79-70
Average Worker
(100)
D
69-60
Needs Help
F
Below 60
Unable to grade
Compound Machine Report Grade Sheet
Report/PowerPoint:
 Handed in on time or before due date
(10)
 Typed, appropriate font size, spacing
(10)
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Name of Machine with Picture or Sketch of Machine
(15)
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Task:
o What task does your machine accomplish?
(5)
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o How does the compound machine allow the task
to be completed in an easier way?
(5)
o How would this task be completed
without using the machine?
(5)
Motivation:
o What motivated you to design this machine
for this specific task?
(5)
o What is the importance or connection to you?
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(5)
Roles of the simple machines:
o How does each of the simple machines play
an important role inside the compound machine?
(10)
o What advantage does each machine
give you (Force, Distance, Direction)?
(10)
o How does each of the simple machines make work easier?
(10)
Marketability:
o How does your machine have marketability
in today’s economy?
(10)
Total:
A
100-90
Master Inventor
B
89-80
Apprentice
C
79-70
Average Worker
D
69-60
Needs Help
(100)
F
Below 60
Unable to grade
Contract for Compound Machine Project
I have chosen to work: (Circle one)
Alone
With:
.
My parents/guardians approve of my choice and my choice of partner (if applicable), they have
shown their support by signing this paper here:
Parent/guardian Signature
I have discussed this project with my parents/guardians and have told them the due date for this
project is:
.
There are multiple parts to this project and whether working alone or with a partner I agree to
complete all parts by the set benchmark dates. I am aware that this is MY project to complete
and not my parents or teacher’s responsibility. I can earn a good grade by following all parts of
the rubric. I will ask my teacher for help along the way if I need it.
Here is my signature:
date: