Synergy: Simple Machines

A simple machine is a device containing few or no moving parts that makes work easy. A lever, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, screw, and wheel and axle are classic examples. These mechanical devices use changes in direction or magnitudes of force to do perform a task.

Read the recently published picture book, then learn more at the website:

NEWTON AND CURIE: THE SCIENCE SQUIRRELS by Daniel Kirk features two STEAM loving squirrels who use their knowledge of simple machines to solve real-world problems.

GENERATION GENIUS is a K-8 teaching resource that pairs educational videos with science standards aligned lessons and activities. For instance, their Simple Machines video is accompanied by discussion questions, vocabulary, reading material, activities, lesson plan, teacher guide, and assessment. Limited access is available without a subscription.

To visit Generation Genius, go to https://bit.ly/35iSVUj.

ARC courtesy of Abrams.

Website: Fuel Up to Play 60

FUEL UP TO PLAY 60 is a nutrition and physical activity program.

A collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture along with the National Dairy Council and the National Football League, the website contains resources for students, educators, parents, and the community.

The program includes a wide range of contests and activities that involve the entire school. The Playbook section of the website contains step-by-step instructions for healthy eating and physical activity ideas. The Tools section includes background information for educators.

Librarians will find that the library serves as a great place to coordinate a school-wide health and active living program. Be sure to check out the school funding opportunities and examples from past programs.

To visit the website, go to https://www.fueluptoplay60.com.

Website Review: Choose My Plate

CHOOSE MY PLATE is a website from the United States Department of Agriculture providing interesting information and activities related to healthy eating.

The MyPlate section provides an overview of the food groups and details about fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, dairy, and oils.

The audience section features resources for different groups of people including teens and college-aged students.

The healthy eating style and physical activity sections provide guidelines, tips, and resources for creating a healthy lifestyle.

Online tools such as the SuperTracker and BMI Calculator provide interactive tools focusing on specific topics related to healthy eating and fitness. A fruit group quiz and vegetable group quiz are also available.

The website also contains information about popular topics such as recipes, food waste, food safety, and dietary guidelines.

Librarians will find that this website provides useful resources for health and physical education teachers. The materials would also be useful for a school-wide program stressing health and fitness.

To explore the website, go to http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.