Simple machines are basic mechanical devices that make work easier by altering the magnitude or direction of a force, including the lever, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane, wedge, and screw. Articles are a unique way for readers to learn about the world around them. In addition to building reading comprehension skills and increasing vocabulary, articles can be used for writing and research. Simple Machines is broken into 8 single-page sections: What Are Simple Machines, Levers, Wheels and Axles, Pulleys, Inclined Planes and Wedges, Screws, Simple Machines in Daily Life, and Words to Know.