Simple Machines by Learning Rabbit

$1.99, iPad

Teaches: Science, taking things apart, physical science

CTR Rating: 52.5%

CTR Review

Solid content meets dry interactive design, in this physical science textbook designed to introduce older children (upper elementary and middle school age) to six machines (lever, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane, screw, and wedge). Each is explained by way of print (with some hyperlinks and machine language narration). We hoped for more simulations where you could get your hands on the concepts, but sadly, this app doesn't wander beyond what you'd get in a typical printed science textbook. There are three sections for each machine: did you know, quiz, and explore more. The lever and pulley also include simple scientifically accurate simulations that have no specific goal. The quiz is a a multiple-choice review, and explore tells you how to apply machines in real life. With the screw for example, it suggests you take a piece of wood and some screws and test which ones go in easier in order to show you mechanical advantage. This app is intended for students primarily in grades 4-7.