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Simple Systems vs. Simple Machines

Posts: 2
Location: Texas
Joined: 2007-11-11
Simple Systems vs. Simple Machines

I am a third grade teacher. I am confused about a TEK we are supposed to teach in science. It talks about simple systems like a toy car or a yo-yo. It says nothing about simple machines, like levels and pulleys. But the only lessons I can find are about simple machines. Can someone tell me if simple systems is just a stepping stone to simple machines or am I actually supposed to be teaching simple machines?

Thanks for your help!

Mrs. Notpit



Posts: 1
Location: Texas
Joined: 2008-11-12
I also teach third grade. 

I also teach third grade.  Simple systems applies more broadly than simple machines.  So many things all around are simple systems or a series of them working together. For lesson ideas try the UT Dana Center.  You can get there from the TEA website.