Inclined Planes Ramp It Up: Simple Machines for Kids

Learn how simple machines make work easier in this colorful nonfiction picture book all about science and engineering!

How does a dump truck dump all the dirt out of its truck bed? It turns that flat bed into a ramp!

A ramp is another word for an inclined plane, and an inclined plane is one of six simple machines that are designed to make work easier. Lifting, pulling, pushing--all these tasks are more efficient when you use a simple machine. In Inclined Planes Ramp It Up: Simple Machines for Kids, readers ages 5 to 8 learn how inclined planes are sloping surfaces that make it easier to move heavy things from lower ground to higher ground - and vice versa - instead of lifting them.

Scientific concepts including friction and mechanical advantage become clear with engaging illustrations and lots of real-life examples that kids can spot in their home, schools, and neighborhoods.

An introductory poem offers language arts connections while a hands-on activity at the end reinforces concepts in the book. A glossary and photographs offer even more supplemental learning opportunities.

Inclined Planes Ramp It Up is part of a six-book set of Picture Book Science books designed to introduce young engineers to physical science concepts. Other titles are Wedges Make a Point, Screws Keep Things Secure, Pulleys Pull Their Weight, Wheels Make the World Go Round, and Levers Lessen the Load.

All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core state standards and Next Generation Science Standards.

Andi Diehn has written many books for children, and a few for adults as well. She works as an editor and marketer for Nomad Press and lives with her family in rural New Hampshire.

Micah Rauch is a freelance graphic designer and illustrator from the beautiful state of Montana. He received a BFA in graphic design from Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana, and has illustrated several books for Nomad Press, including Kitchen Chemistry, Fairground Physics, and Crazy Contraptions.