Levers, linkages and types of motion
A collection of resources for GCSE Design and Technology that support the teaching of levers and linkages and different types of movement (for example linear, rotary, reciprocating and oscillating).
Levers and linkages, gears, pulleys and cams
This collection of classroom presentations, student worksheets and student revision activities support the teaching of:
- types of motion (I.e. reciprocating, oscillating, linear, rotary)
- gears (I.e. bevel, idler, gear trains
- pulleys
- levers (I.e. first order, second order, third order) and linkages (I.e. push / pull)
- cams and followers (I.e. eccentric, snail, oval)
Design and make projects to teach mechanisms
Produced by the Technology Enhancement programme (TEP), these materials help students to understand, design and prototype mechanisms (including levers, gears and linkages). The resource also supports students to work through some of the mathematical concepts involved in calculating gear ratio.
Students are challenged to make a series of mechanisms to meet specific design briefs:
- 'easy open' jar clamp
- pantograph engraver
- stone tumbling machine
- picture frame clamp
- wire frame automaton
Study files are also included and these allow students to research and practice important techniques and topics. The areas covered include: design, researching mechanical systems (including four bar linkage, cam and cam follower, crank-slider, friction, stiffness, electric motors, smart wire.
Machines, Mechanisms and Mathematics
This resource provides mathematic examples of how linkages are used in engineered products. Each example is accompanied by detailed diagrams, explanations of the mathematical principles behind the transfer of motion (I.e. rotary, linear) and examples of a demonstration models that could be used in class. Due to the word count of this resource, we suggest that it be used by the teacher, providing examples for classroom demonstration or student activity.
The mighty mathematics of the lever
Youtube video: Archimedes once said “Give me a place to stand, and I shall move the Earth.” While the idea of a person moving such a huge mass on their own might sound impossible, chances are you’ve seen this idea in action at your local playground. Andy Peterson and Zack Patterson use the seesaw to illustrate the amazing implications and uses of the lever.
Modelling linkages
Investigating simple linkages using card models, used in primary phase but also serves as a quick refresher for students.
