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Home | Homeschool STEM Kits, Unit Studies, and Activities | Explore Simple Machines Unit Study for Elementary Homeschool

Explore Simple Machines — Elementary STEM Unit Study | Knowledge Crates

$124.99
$124.99
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EXPECTED SHIPPING DATE
November 2, 2026

Your child is about to build a catapult, construct a working Ferris wheel, and realize that a seesaw is actually a machine. The Simple Machines Unit Study Crate brings one of the most engaging STEM topics to life through hands-on experiments, engineering challenges, art projects, and great books — all included, nothing to buy separately.

Real learning. Zero prep. Grades 2–5.

What's Inside Your Crate

  • Thames & Kosmos Simple Machines STEM Kit (26 experiments) — Build and test models of levers, pulleys, and gears with this comprehensive kit that makes abstract concepts tangible.
  • Ferris Wheel Model Kit (requires 2 AAA batteries, not included) — Construct a working Ferris wheel to explore rotational motion and mechanical advantage.
  • Popsicle Stick Catapult Project — Build and launch a mini catapult while learning about force, energy, and trajectory.
  • Simple Machines Scavenger Hunt — Go on a mission to find simple machines hiding in everyday objects around the house.
  • Array Capture Multiplication Game — Turn multiplication practice into a hands-on game that reinforces math skills through play.
  • Activity Guide to walk you through it all

Creative Art Projects

  • Colorful Gears Art — Paint and design interlocking gears to understand mechanical movement.
  • Chore Robot Art & Writing — Create a "chore robot" and write a short story about how it helps with household tasks.
  • Silhouette Art: Simple Machines & Brilliant Minds — Celebrate the inventors who changed the world with their mechanical innovations.

Books Included with Your Crate

  • Simple Machines by D.J. Ward — A kid-friendly introduction to the six types of simple machines and how they work.
  • Everyday STEM Technology: Machines by Jenny Jacoby — Discover the machines that shape our daily lives, from elevators to bicycles.
  • Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters by Andrea Beaty — A STEM story about teamwork and perseverance.
  • Science No Fair!: Project Droid #1 by Amanda Burwasser — Follow a curious robot as it navigates the world of science fairs and simple machines.

Perfect For

  • Homeschooling families looking for engaging, standards-aligned STEM activities
  • Parents who want screen-free, hands-on learning that actually holds attention
  • Curious kids who love building, experimenting, and asking "How does that work?"

A note from us: simple machines is one of those topics kids think they already understand — until they're the one designing the catapult. We love watching that shift happen.

Additional Resource: Want to see this unit study in action? See Our Blog Post Here

Additional Information: Items may vary based on availability. Crates contain products not manufactured by the seller and may include small parts. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Contents are not for consumption.

  • Thames & Kosmos Simple Machines STEM Kit (26 Experiments): Build and test models of levers, pulleys, and gears with this comprehensive kit that makes abstract concepts tangible.
  • Ferris Wheel Model Kit (Requires 2 AAA batteries, not included): Construct a working Ferris wheel to explore rotational motion and mechanical advantage.
  • Popsicle Stick Catapult Project: Build and launch a mini catapult while learning about force, energy, and trajectory.
  • Simple Machines Scavenger Hunt: Go on a mission to find simple machines hidden in everyday objects around the house.
  • Array Capture Multiplication Game: Turn multiplication practice into a fun, hands-on game that reinforces math skills through playful learning.

Creative Art Projects:

  • Colorful Gears Art: Paint and design interlocking gears to understand mechanical movement.
  • Chore Robot Art & Writing: Create a "chore robot" and write a short story about how it helps with household tasks.
  • Silhouette Art – Simple Machines & Brilliant Minds: Celebrate inventors who changed the world with their mechanical innovations.

Books Included with Your Crate:

  • Simple Machines by D.J. Ward – A kid-friendly introduction to the six types of simple machines and how they work.
  • Everyday STEM Technology: Machines by Jenny Jacoby – Discover the machines that shape our daily lives, from elevators to bicycles.
  • Rosie Revere and the Raucous Riveters by Andrea Beaty – A STEM story about teamwork and perseverance.
  • Science No Fair!: Project Droid #1 by Amanda Burwasser – Follow a curious robot as it navigates the world of science fairs and simple machines.

Who Is This Simple Machines Unit Study Perfect For? Elementary

  • Homeschooling families seeking engaging STEM activities aligned with educational standards.
  • Parents looking for screen-free, hands-on learning experiences for their children.
  • Curious kids who love building, experimenting, and asking, "How does that work?"

Processing & Shipping Times: We work hard to get your orders out the door as quickly as possible! While we strive to ship in-stock orders the same day, please allow up to three business days for processing. Some products may be temporarily out of stock while we're restocking supplies, or may be part of a scheduled seasonal release. When a product has a future shipping date, you'll find it displayed near the Add to Cart button before placing your order.

  • If your order includes both in-stock items and items awaiting restock or a scheduled release, we'll ship the in-stock items separately rather than hold your entire order.

Shipping Methods & Tracking

  • We ship orders via UPS and USPS, with shipping costs calculated at checkout based on your location.
  • Once your order ships, you'll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information so you can follow your package's journey.

Delivery Issues

  • Although we carefully prepare and ship every order, we know things don't always go as planned once a package is in transit. If you have a concern about your shipment, please contact us and we'll do our best to help.
  • If your tracking information shows that your package was delivered but you haven't received it, please contact the shipping carrier for further assistance. If your package is lost, damaged, or stolen, reach out to us so we can help you understand the next steps.

Where We Ship

  • We currently ship within the United States only.
  • Thank you for supporting Knowledge Crates! We're a small business run by real people, and we appreciate the opportunity to be part of your family's learning adventures.

🎯 What Will Your Child Learn?

  • STEM Skill Development: Introduces key science, technology, engineering, and math concepts through hands-on experiments.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Encourages kids to design, build, and test simple machines to solve real-world problems.
  • Creativity & Imagination: Combines STEM learning with creative art projects to engage both sides of the brain.
  • Independent Learning: The step-by-step guide helps kids take ownership of their learning journey while developing confidence in their abilities.

🎯 What academic standards does this crate align with? 

Common Core Standards: 

  • RI.4.1: Refer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.
  • RI.4.3: Explain events, procedures, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text, including what happened and why, based on specific information in the text. 
  • 3.MD.A.2: Measure and estimate liquid volumes and masses of objects using standard units.
  • 4.MD.A.1: Know relative sizes of measurement units within one system.

Applicable Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):

  • 3-PS2-1: Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.
  • 3-PS2-2: Make observations and/or measurements of an object's motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion. 
  • 3-5-ETS1-1: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
  • 3-5-ETS1-2: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
  • 3-5-ETS1-3: Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Explore Simple Machines — Elementary...

$124.99
$124.99
Sold Out

The best educational activity kits for kids are hands-on, engaging, and provide a mix of learning and fun. They should include high-quality materials, clear instructions, and opportunities for creativity and critical thinking. Some of the best options include:

  • STEM Kits – Focus on science, technology, engineering, and math with experiments and building projects.
  • Art & Craft Kits – Encourage self-expression and fine motor skill development.
  • Literacy & Language Kits – Introduce new vocabulary, storytelling, and early reading skills.
  • Cultural & Geography Kits – Explore different countries, traditions, and history.
  • Sensory Play Kits – Help develop fine motor skills and encourage exploration through textures and hands-on activities.

Knowledge Crates stand out as one of the best educational activity kits because they combine all of these elements into themed, hands-on learning experiences. Each crate is thoughtfully curated with books, a variety of projects, and all the materials needed—making it a stress-free way for parents to provide enriching activities at home.

Homeschooling can be overwhelming, especially when planning lessons and gathering materials for activities. Knowledge Crates simplify the process by delivering pre-planned, hands-on learning experiences straight to your door. Here's how they make homeschooling easy:

  • All-in-One Convenience – Each crate includes everything needed for activities, eliminating extra shopping trips.
  • Books & Guides Included – Every crate features carefully selected books and a step-by-step guide to walk kids through each lesson.
  • Hands-On Learning – Engaging, screen-free activities help kids learn through play and exploration.
  • Saves Parents Time – No need to search for lesson plans or supplies—everything is ready to go!
  • Variety of Topics – From science and art to geography and life skills, kids get a well-rounded learning experience.

With Knowledge Crates, homeschooling feels less like a chore and more like an adventure! Whether you’re supplementing a curriculum or looking for engaging activities, these kits make learning at home easy, fun, and stress-free.