Teaching Tips: What Is a Pulley?

Activity: Wheels

Vocabulary

wheel, motion, axle, force

For this activity, you will need:

objects with wheels, e.g., bikes, tricycles, wagons, wheel barrows, doll carriages, shopping carts, etc.

spare wheels in various sizes that can be placed in learning center so that children can freely examine them.

journals for the children to document their experiences. You can make inexpensive journals by folding 3-4 sheets of paper in half and stapling on the fold line. Add a colored sheet for a cover if you like.

Directions
1. Sing “The Wheels on the Bus” with the children, encouraging them to make arm motions for “round and round.”
2. Ask the children, “Would wheels work if they were square instead of round?” and/or “What if a wheel comes off?” Encourage discussion.
3. Introduce the wheeled objects brought to the classroom. Encourage children to examine the wheels, compare the sizes and placement and how the wheels are attached to the frame.
4. Encourage the children to document what they have learned about the value and use of wheels in their journals.