Convenient Contraptions
Science/Art
Children will design a funny invention to help people solve an everyday problem.
What You Need
- Construction paper
- Cardboard
- Pipe cleaners
- Wooden shapes
- Macaroni shapes
- String or yarn
- Markers
- Scissors
- Glue
What To Do
- Brainstorm with children a list of everyday problems that an invention might help a person solve. Examples might include: tying shoes, making a bed, or cooling hot food. (You might also refer to Rube Goldberg's inventions at http://www.rubegoldberg.com/html/gallery.htm)
- Invite children to work alone or with a partner to design an invention that can help people solve a common problem or task.
- Distribute art materials for children to use to create a model or draw a picture or diagram of their invention.
- Ask children to write a name for their inventions. Encourage them to present their inventions to the class, or display them in the classroom.