A pull is a force that brings an object closer.

A pulley is a simple mechanism or machine which is useful for lifting things.

The load is the object you are lifting with a simple machine.

The effort is the force needed to do a job.

A force is a push or a pull. Forces can make objects move, slow down, change direction or change shape.

How pulleys can help us

Science

In this Forces and simple machines unit, pupils learn that air resistance, water resistance and friction push back against moving objects. In this Forces unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to accurately describe and explain the actions of forces in a range of situations.

In the Simple forces including magnets unit, pupils learnt to compare how things move on different surfaces. In this Forces including simple machines unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to identify the effects of air resistance, water resistance and friction, that act between moving surfaces

Forces including simple machines

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

A {{}} is a simple mechanism or machine, involving a wheel and rope or chain, which is useful for lifting things.

What is the word used to describe the force you apply when using a pulley to lift something?

Which of these images shows a correctly labelled pulley? 

Which of these pieces of equipment can often use pulleys? 

Which of these pulleys does not change the direction of the effort needed to lift the load? 

It changes the direction of the effort needed to lift the load.

It changes the amount of effort needed to lift the load.

How does this pulley make it easier to lift the load?

Which of these activities involve a push force? 

Gravity is the force that attracts or {{}} objects to Earth.

A seesaw is an example of what type of simple machine or mechanism?

When you use a lever, what do you call the force used to move an object.

What is the name given to the thing you lift using a lever?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz