The Franklin Institute
Franklin Institute Online: Simple Machines
Information on all six simple machines, nicely presented with extra information available for all. Other sources available. Do "Try This Demonstration."
TeachEngineering
Teach Engineering: Rube Goldberg and the Meaning of Machines
Simple and compound machines are designed to make work easier. When we encounter a machine that does not fit this understanding, the so-called machine seems absurd. In this instructional activity, the cartoons of Rube Goldberg are...
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Physical Science: Compound Machine
[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] Provides a definition of a compound machine with examples and discusses the efficiency and mechanical advantage of compound machines.
Museum of Science
The Museum of Science: Sketch Gadget Anatomy
The Museum of Science provides this site that shows the activity in which students sketch all the elements of a compound machine describing each component's function. Also includes an extension activity for homework.
Museum of Science
The Museum of Science: Classroom Activity Be Inventive!
Student activity that requires the design, construction, and testing of a compound machine to solve a problem in their environment.
Museum of Science
The Museum of Science: Gadget Anatomy
This site from The Museum of Science presents some compound machines and asks students to identify which simple machines they are composed of. Students provide their answer and receive immediate feedback.
Museum of Science
Museum of Science: Inventor's Toolbox: The Elements of Machines
Simple machines that were all in common use for centuries before Leonardo da Vinci's time, followed by devices that combine these in various ways.
Science Struck
Science Struck: How Does an Ancient and Modern Catapult Work
A short explanation of how a catapult works and some examples of them.