Class: Primary 6
Term: Third Term
Subject: Basic Science & Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Technology
Previous Lesson: Lever, First class lever
Topic: Classification of Lever
Content/Learning Area: third Class Levers as Simple Machines
Time Allocation: 40 Minutes
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Identify third-class levers.
- Affective Domain: Show interest in learning about simple machines.
- Psychomotor Domain: Give examples of third-class levers.
- Social Domain: Participate in group discussions about levers.
Reference Materials
- 9 Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Center Scheme of work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Basic Science and Technology for Primary Schools, Book 6
- Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) curriculum
Instructional Materials
to deliver this lesson, the teacher will use the following materials: real-life examples of third-class levers (e.g., stapler, fishing rod, tongs), charts illustrating different classes of levers, and textbooks.
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding third-class levers helps pupils appreciate how simple machines make work easier and enhances their problem-solving skills in everyday life.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils have prior knowledge of simple machines and levers.
Lesson content
Classification of Lever
Third Class Levers as Simple Machines
Third-class levers are a type of simple machine where the effort is applied between the fulcrum and the load. This arrangement allows for increased speed and range of motion,even though it requires more effort than the load being moved.
Examples of Third Class Levers
Hear are some common examples of third-class levers:
- Stapler – The effort is applied in the middle to fasten papers.
- Fishing Rod – The effort is applied between the fulcrum (hand) and the load (fish).
- Tongs – The effort is applied in the middle to grip objects.
- Tweezers – The effort is applied in the middle to pluck or grab small items.
- Human Arm – The elbow acts as the fulcrum, the muscle provides the effort, and the hand holds the load.
- Baseball Bat – The effort is applied between the fulcrum (grip) and the load (ball).
- Hockey Stick – Similar to a baseball bat, the effort is applied in the middle.
- barbecue Tongs – Used for grilling, the effort is applied between the fulcrum and the food.
Teaching Methods
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following methods: Discussion, Explanation, Demonstration, Visual Aids, Question and Answer.
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher revises the previous lesson on levers and introduces the concept of third-class levers using real-life examples.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils participate by recalling previous knowledge and observing the examples.
Step 2: Explanation of Third Class Levers
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: the teacher explains the characteristics of third-class levers, emphasizing the position of the effort between the fulcrum and the load.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen attentively and ask questions for clarification.
Step 3: Demonstration of Third Class Levers
Time: 10 minutes
Teaching Skill: Demonstration
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates how third-class levers work using a stapler, fishing rod, or tongs.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils observe the demonstration and try using the levers themselves.
Step 4: Discussion on Examples
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher leads a discussion on various examples of third-class levers and their uses.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils contribute examples and discuss their applications.
Step 5: Note-Taking
Time: 5 minutes
Teaching Skill: Writing
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher guides pupils to summarize the key points in their notebooks.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils write down the definition and examples of third-class levers.
Step 6: Evaluation/Review
Time: 3 minutes
Teaching Skill: Assessment
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher asks questions to assess pupils’ understanding of the lesson.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils answer the questions to demonstrate their understanding.
step 7: Conclusion
Time: 2 minutes
Teaching Skill: Closure
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the lesson and previews the next topic.Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen to the summary and prepare for the next lesson.
Lesson Keywords
- Lever – A simple machine that multiplies force.
- Fulcrum – The pivot point of a lever.
- Effort – The force applied to a lever.
- Load – the object being moved by a lever.
- Third Class Lever – A lever where the effort is between the fulcrum and the load.
- Simple Machine – A device that makes work easier.
Lesson Evaluation
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- Define a third-class lever.
- Give three examples of third-class levers.
- Explain how a stapler works as a third-class lever.
Assignment/Homework
- Find five more examples of third-class levers in your home or environment.
- Draw a diagram of a third-class lever, labeling the fulcrum, effort, and load.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Provide simplified diagrams and hands-on activities with real-life examples.
- For advanced learners: Challenge them to research and present on the mechanical advantage of third-class levers.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use visual aids, verbal explanations, and hands-on demonstrations to cater to different learning styles.
Note for Teachers
Ensure pupils understand the position of the fulcrum, effort, and load in third-class levers. Use real-life examples to make the lesson relatable and engaging.

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