Ramps Science Unit for Preschool and Kindergarten (Simple Machines)

Students will use balls, cars and other objects on ramps as they consider the question, "What affects the way an object rolls down a ramp?" This packet supports the Next Generation Science Standards.

The “Science Kids” series is intended to help teachers implement developmentally appropriate, hands-on science activities for children in Preschool, Kindergarten and the early grades. The activities in these packets are based on the scientific method and encourage inquiry-based learning. All activities can be differentiated to meet the needs of your students.

Concepts in this Unit:

*Some objects roll down ramps, while others slide.

*The height or texture of a ramp will change the distance and speed an object rolls.

*Changing the weight of an object will change the distance and speed it rolls down a ramp.

*An object will move around obstacles that are in its way as it rolls down a ramp

Investigations include:

*"Does it Roll or Slide?"

*"Does Height Make a Difference?"

*"Bumpy Ramps"

*"Heavy and Light"

*"Obstacles"

Printable "Prediction" and "What Really Happened?" sheets are included for many of these investigations.

Also included is a "Just for Fun" ramps art activity.

The final project in this packet is a "Design Your Own Ramp" activity with printable planning sheets and suggestions for ways that students can share their projects with their peers and others.

Click to see my entire Science Curriculum