Science
Mission Objectives
Explain how gears work and their purpose
Create a set of interacting gears
Notice patterns in the workings of gears
Enquiry Approach - Problem-solving
Applying prior scientific knowledge to solve problems and answer further questions.
Enquiry Skill - Observing and measuring
Using the senses and taking measurements, using a range of equipment, to make observations about a scientific enquiry.
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Words and meanings to learn
gear
toothed wheel that engages another toothed mechanism in order to change the speed or direction of motion.
mesh
to connect, interlock or engage with
mechanism
a mechanical device
rack and pinion
gears used to convert rotation (movement in a circular direction) into linear motion (movement in a straight line)
bevel gear
a gear having teeth cut into a conical surface, usually meshing with a similar gear set at right angles
Resources: Strong cardboard, lolly sticks, paper straws, sellotape, thin dowel/cocktail sticks, plasticine, sticky tape, glue, a compass and scissors.
Core Handout (2): A planning sheet so children are able to design their gear system and then ask prompt questions to show their understanding of how gears work.
Stretch Handout (3): Examples of gear mechanisms that ask children to predict how many times the smaller gear will turn.
Expert film
Mission assignment film
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