We are nearing the end of Calvert 1st grade, so we decided to knock out the last two chapters in our science book with a dedicated Science Week! On day one we explored position and force . See also Day 3 , Day 4 , and Day 5 . Welcome to our second day of Science Week! Today we investigated simple machines and magnets . A simple machine is a tool that can make it easier to move things. First we tried to lift a textbook with one finger, but it was too heavy! So we built a simple machine using a marker, a ruler, and some masking tape. First, tape a marker to the table. Second, balance the ruler on the marker. Third, place one end of the lever (ruler) under the textbook. We learned that lever is a bar that balances on a point. Our ruler became a lever by balancing on the marker. We were able to lit the heavy textbook with one finger using the help of the lever! Next Miss M tried to pick up and carry a hea...