This demonstration shows how to build a simple pulley using a spool, cardboard, and string to lift small objects. It introduces the concept of mechanical advantage and how pulleys reduce effort or change the direction of force.

1. Cut two circles from cardboard and poke a hole in the center of each.
2. Glue the cardboard circles onto either side of a thread spool to create rims for the pulley wheel.
3. Make a handle on a cup by poking two holes, threading string through, and tying securely.
4. Slide the spool onto a piece of wire to serve as the axle.
5. Suspend the wire between two sturdy supports, such as chairs or door handles.
6. Loop the string over the spool so the cup hangs down.
7. Place marbles or other small objects in the cup and pull the string to lift the load.

Skill Building | Simple Machines: Pulley - KID Museum:

📄 Simple Pulley System For Kids - Little Bins for Little Hands: https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/pulley-simple-machine/

• Add more spools to create a compound pulley and compare the effort needed.
• Replace the cup with a toy bucket to lift larger items.
• Design a toy elevator or flagpole using the pulley system.
• Use a spring scale to measure the difference in force between pulley setups.

• Use scissors carefully when cutting cardboard and string.
• Ensure the pulley support (chairs or handles) is stable and will not tip over.
• Avoid overloading the cup to prevent breaking the string or dropping objects.

• How does a pulley make lifting easier? (It reduces the force needed or changes the direction of the force.)
• What happens if you add more pulleys to the system? (You gain more mechanical advantage, so less force is required to lift the load.)
• Where do you see pulleys being used in everyday life? (Examples: elevators, cranes, flagpoles, clotheslines, window blinds.)