K Nex Build/Math Connections

We have been discussing simple machines--levers, pulleys, incline planes, gears etc. We also discussed how math relates to these ideas. In examining ratios and proportions, we learned that in simple machines: F1/F2 = D1/D2 where F = force, and D=distance. Students had a chance to do some inquiry based learning by creating structures with K Nex and experimenting with force and distance.