Visit a science center or science museum near you (see Resources) to learn about simple machines. Science centers offer live demonstrations illustrating how these machines work as well as hands-on opportunities to learn about the workings of simple machines. Ask a staff instructor for any free printed material related to the simple machines you may take home to study. Also, contact the science center and ask if they have free admission days. Most centers and museums offer free admission on certain days of the month.
Visit your local library and borrow books about simple machines. Borrow books that have illustrations and descriptions. These books will help you learn about the physics of these machines and how they are used in real-life applications. Books about simple machines are found in the science or engineering sections of the library.
Learn about simple machines online. There are innumerable websites (see Resources) that provide information about simple machines. These websites contain lessons, games and quizzes that can help you learn about simple machines. Go to the forums of the website and interact with other learners and ask about any mechanical terms you are unclear about.