Looking for the best inclined plane for the job? Groups calculate the theoretical mechanical advantage for four different inclined planes. They determine the actual mechanical advantage by measuring the amount of force needed for the same inclined planes. Using the information they gather, they figure out the best size of inclined plane needed for a wheelbarrow at a construction site.

Concepts

inclined planes, simple machines, work, mechanical advantage, engineering design, design, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Have groups discuss whether it would make a difference if all their cars are not the same and have them decide on a method to determine whether it matters

Classroom Considerations

• The activity needs space to set up four stations with two inclined planes at each station
• Be sure the groups measure the amount of force needed to lift the car and the weight 
• The fourth in a 10-part series

Pros

• The worksheet comes as a doc too, in case you need to make edits based upon your setup
• The activity comes with an answer sheet for the calculations that would be the same

Cons

• None

Common Core

6.NS.B.3 HSA-SSE.A.1.a HSA-CED.A.4