on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
This series explores a range of simple machines such as wheels, pulleys, ramps, wedges, and screws, which are essential for making tasks easier. It is tailored for children at Key Stage One level. The book 'Levers' specifically delves into how levers function, their presence in everyday objects like bicycles and scissors, and even explains how the human arm operates as a lever. The series offers a clear introduction to simple machines, what they are, what they're made of, and how we use them in today's world. Exciting examples of each machine's applications draw on the world familiar to a child, including some that may be 'hidden' in household objects or everyday fixtures. Amazing facts illustrate how we use machines to do tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think levers make our daily tasks easier? Can you think of an example?
Why do you think levers are important in building and construction?
What would happen if we didn’t have levers? How would it affect how we open doors or lift heavy objects?
Can you imagine designing a tool using a lever? What would it look like and what would it do?
How do levers help people work together to solve problems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to look around the house for items that use levers, like scissors or a seesaw in the playground, to make the concept more relatable.
While discussing the book, emphasize the mechanics of levers by using simple household items to demonstrate how they work.
Ask your child to explain how they would use a lever to make a difficult task easier, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Celebrate the child's efforts to understand and discuss the concepts, regardless of the accuracy of their answers, to build confidence and enthusiasm in learning more about physics and engineering.
Create a small project where you and your child can build a simple lever mechanism, turning theory into hands-on practice.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Simple Mechanics
Explanation: The book 'Levers' by Chris Oxlade delves into the basic principles of how levers work and their different types.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by identifying and understanding the mechanics behind everyday tools like scissors, seesaws, and bottle openers.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: As the book explains different uses of levers, it encourages children to think about how levers solve problems by multiplying force.
Real-World Application: Kids can utilize this lesson in real life by figuring out easier ways to lift heavy objects using the principle of levers.
Example Lesson: Importance of Innovation
Explanation: The book highlights historical and modern innovations involving levers, showcasing human ingenuity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be inventive and think creatively about how tools and simple machines can be used or improved.
Example Lesson: Scientific Thinking
Explanation: By exploring the science behind how levers work, the book promotes a scientific approach to understanding everyday physics.
Real-World Application: Children can apply scientific thinking to other areas of their lives, developing a habit of inquiry and reasoning.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The book portrays instances where tasks are accomplished using levers, often requiring teamwork and collaboration.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in school projects or team sports, where working together can achieve greater results using combined strength and strategy.