Hudson’s Bay Tools: Simple Machines (intermediate elementary students)

Students dive into hands-on, historical discovery! Experience how the physics of simple machines shaped daily life at a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post long before modern technology existed, using nothing but muscle, iron, and wood. The fort’s “living laboratory" bridges grade 5 science and social studies content, revealing how simple machines were created and used at the fort and how the region’s natural resources drove early push and pull factors of immigration to British Columbia.

Learning objectives

• Properties of simple machines and their force effects
• Constructed complex machines
• Identify significant natural resources in BC 
• Immigration push and pull factors

This school program addresses the "Big Ideas" for Social Studies and Science in BC’s course curriculum, designed for grade 5 students.

Teacher information 

• Book now!
  • Please do not register with your personal information. You must register using your work email and phone number, along with the school’s address and postal code.
• Fees: View cost on fee page
• Capacity: Two class maximum per school (up to 60 students)
• Adult chaperones: One adult required per 15 students in attendance
• Parking: Complimentary parking is provided for teachers and accompanying chaperones. To receive free parking, please register your vehicle at the Visitor Centre upon arrival
• Offered: September to June, Monday to Friday at 10 am and Wednesday and Thursday at 12:30 pm, each program is 2 hours
• Language: Available in English or French
• Please ensure that all schools have a fair chance to participate in our programs: give us at least two weeks' notice of any cancellations, so that we may offer the time slot to another class.

How the program works

• Your class will be divided into groups, supervised by a parent volunteer or teacher. 
• During their visit, each group of students will explore the historic buildings and interact with an expert interpreter.

Preparing for your visit

• Divide your student list into groups of 10-15 students, 4 groups max. Assign an adult chaperone to each group.
• Programs run rain or shine, dress for the weather. In June, insect repellent may be needed.
• To assist us in delivering the best experience for your students, encourage adult leaders to model active listening, to silence cell phones, and take necessary phone calls or conversations with other parents outside while programs are in progress.

When you arrive

• Check in 5 minutes prior to your scheduled program time.
• Pay for your field trip using credit card or school cheque, written out to the Receiver General for Canada.
• Adult chaperones are required at all times while exploring the fort and Visitor Centre.

Washrooms and lunch facilities

• Washrooms are located in the Visitor Centre.
• Outdoor picnic areas and shelters are available for lunch.

After your visit 

• How was your visit? We welcome your feedback by email.