SIMPLE
at
WORK
AT CONNER PRAIRIE
Let’s review the different types of simple machines.
An INCLINED PLANE is a slanted surface that makes it easier to roll or slide loads to a higher or
lower location.
A PULLEY is a wheel with a groove. A rope fits into the groove. Pulling on the rope causes the wheel to
turn. A pulley makes raising and lowering heavy loads easier.
A SCREW is an inclined plane that wraps around a cylinder to make a spiral. It can be used to hold
things together, make holes or move things.
A WEDGE is two inclined planes put together to make a pointed edge. It is used to cut, split or move
things apart.
A LEVER is a board or bar that rotates on a point called a fulcrum. Pushing down on one side of a lever
will raise the other side. Levers can be used to open things or lift loads.
A WHEEL AND AXLE uses a wheel that spins around a bar to move loads across a distance more easily
or perform other jobs.
As you visit Conner Prairie, find the simple machines and identify them!
One type of simple machine goes in each blank.
Whitaker’s Store
Mr. Whitaker uses a ramp to move items into his store. He can pull
a cart with a heavy object up the ramp. This is easier than carrying
heavy objects up the stairs. The ramp is an
_______________________________________________________________________.
Barker Brothers’ Pottery Shop
The potter uses a scale to weigh lumps of clay. On a scale like this,
the heavier side is always lower than the lighter side. You can add
more weight to the lighter side to make the scale balance. This type
of scale uses a
_______________________________________________________________________.
1859 Balloon Voyage
This device is used with the rope that helps hold the balloon down
when it is not flying. Using this device makes it easier to create
downforce when pulling on the rope. The simple machine at work
here is a
_______________________________________________________________________.
McClure’s Carpenter Shop
The carpenter uses this tool, called an auger, to drill holes in wood.
The grooves have a spiral shape that make it easier to cut into the
wood. The auger is an example of a
_______________________________________________________________________.
Golden Eagle Inn (& other Locations in Prairietown)
An axe is used to chop wood. The sharp edge and triangular shape
help cut the wood and push the pieces apart. An axe is a kind of
_______________________________________________________________________.
Loom House
In the Loom House (near the Conner House), this spinning wheel is
used to spin wool into yarn. Using a spinning wheel is faster than
using a drop spindle. The simple machine used here is a
_______________________________________________________________________.
There are simple machines at work all over
Conner Prairie. Find more examples to share with
your class when you get back to school!