How pulleys work? - Magnets and Forces - Year 3

In the Year 3 curriculum, students delve into the mechanics of pulleys as part of their study on magnets and forces. They are encouraged to explore different types of pulleys through hands-on activities, which involve examining diagrams, constructing examples with available resources, and capturing their work in photographs with a partner. This practical approach helps pupils to understand the functionality of pulleys and observe them in action, reinforcing their learning with visual evidence.

The educational programme also emphasises the development of scientific inquiry skills. Students are tasked with setting up various experiments, such as a fair test to investigate which surface—glass, wood, sandpaper, or carpet—generates the most friction. Furthermore, they engage in a creative project to design a game incorporating magnets, fostering teamwork and problem-solving abilities. Another key task involves using a pulley system to lift an object and measuring the effort required, allowing students to directly experience the concept of force. Throughout these tasks, pupils are guided to document their procedures, findings, and conclusions using scientific terminology, enhancing their ability to communicate and understand scientific concepts effectively.