How do pulleys work? - Teacher's Notes

A pulley is a simple machine that is used to lift heavy objects with less effort. In the classroom, pupils are encouraged to explore the concept of pulleys by watching educational videos that explain how pulleys function and their importance. Teachers guide pupils through the process, ensuring they understand the mechanism of a pulley and absorb the information provided. To make the learning experience more tangible, pupils are asked to observe different types of pulleys that are commonly used in various real-life situations.

As part of a hands-on activity, pupils work in pairs to experiment with actual pulleys, lifting objects to see the pulley system in action. This practical application allows them to directly observe the reduction in effort required to lift weights when using a pulley. Pupils are encouraged to document their experiments by taking photographs and recording their observations in their science books, which helps reinforce their understanding. The lesson culminates with pupils engaging in a series of tasks designed to apply their knowledge scientifically and demonstrate their grasp of how forces work in conjunction with pulley systems.