STEM In The GYM Machines

Why just exercise the body when you can exercise the mind as well? STEM in the GYM is an innovative program that lets students get a physical workout while learning about physics concepts such as force, load, and work. Whether exploring the mechanical advantage of a pulley or the splitting power of a wedge, teachers will enjoy these STEM activities for elementary students.

Big Gears Demonstrator

Gear up your students to learn about mechanical advantage by letting them experience the force required to pull a classmate on a scooter using a rope. Then show them the powerful advantage of reeling their classmate in using a gear and pulley system! One large and one small gear demonstrate the difference in force required to pull a student when gearing up or down. Rubber feet are safe for use on most surfaces. 46″L x 23″W x 6-1/2″H; 36 lb.

Screw Hatch

This creative twist on Physical Ed helps students learn about torque while being active. Simulating a spacecraft hatch for added fun, the Screw Hatch teaches students how a screw device can reduce the amount of force needed to perform work. Students can break down the definition of a screw and discover the power of an inclined plane wrapped around an axis for multiple turns. 16″L x 16″W x 16″H; 10 lb.

Wheel & Axle Demonstrator

Roll your Physical Education students into academic territory learning about the mechanical advantage of the wheel and axle. The Wheel & Axle Demonstrator teaches students about mechanical advantage in relation to the radius of the wheels and axle. Students walk or crawl as they push the axle demonstrator with their hands, realizing how much easier it is to move with it than it is on their own. 25″L x 7″W x 7″H; 3-1/2 lb.

Wall Pulley Package

Pulling oneself across the gym floor is demanding work. Students will appreciate how much easier it is when they are connected to this wall pulley system! It demonstrates a simple pulley system, which is a simple machine that changes the direction and intensity of a force. Includes large screw eye, latch, pulley, and 25’L rope.

Seesaw Lever

Tilting into lessons about the lever has never been this fun! Have students balance on the seesaw independently to see how the lever responds to shifts in their weight placement. Then have multiple students load up the seesaw to demonstrate changes in balance. Move the fulcrum up and down the lever to create situations of uneven balance. Wood construction. 23-3/4″L x 8″W x 2-3/4″H; 5-1/2 lb.

Soft Wedge

Push for academic education into your gym with this wedge. Students learn about using less force to separate items using the mechanical advantage of a wedge. Soft, durable wedge is safe for separating anything, including students standing shoulder to shoulder. Students discover to use wedges to separate two objects, and they will be able to experience it happening first hand to drive home the lesson. 3-1/2″L x 2″W x 2″H.