This 3rd grade science sheet covers the six simple machines in two parts. Page 1 shows six numbered pictures with pointer lines: a seesaw, a wheel on a rod, a rope over a grooved wheel lifting a bucket, a box on a ramp, a wedge splitting wood and a screw. Page 2 gives six one-line descriptions to match to the same six names. Page 3 is the answer key for both parts.
“Name the six simple machines from a picture.”
Part 1 asks for lever, wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, wedge and screw, one for each numbered picture.
“Match each simple machine to a description of what it does.”
Part 2 pairs each name with a one-line description, including the screw as an inclined plane wrapped around a post.
Students look at six numbered pictures and write the machine name on the matching line. A word bank of six names sits above the pictures.
Six descriptions, such as 'A slanted surface that helps move things up or down' and 'A stiff bar that rests and moves on a support point called a fulcrum'. Students write the matching name from the word bank.
Both parts in order, with the six names for the pictures and the six names for the descriptions.
Start of the unit
Hand it out before any teaching and see what students already know. The word bank makes it fair for those who have never met the names.
Pair check
Let pairs finish Part 1 on their own, then swap and compare. Items 4 and 6 start the most talk, because the ramp and the screw share a slanted shape.
Word wall
Once Part 2 is marked, copy the six names and their descriptions onto cards for the wall. Students can check them whenever a later sheet uses one of the words.
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