LEARN NC

Invention convention

black and white image of a surgical electric magnet used during WWI

Invention convention

By Briana Corke Pelton

Provided by Kenan Fellows Program

In this integrated unit, students will draw upon language arts, science, and math while inventing a magnetic or electric product. Students will apply their learning of magnets and electricity while utilizing nonfiction writing skills and applying principles of design. Invention Convention is designed to accommodate the needs of accelerated learners in any of the content areas and to accommodate English Language Learners at a variety of developmental levels.

Invention Convention should be implemented after students have used inquiry learning to explore magnets and circuits. Invention Convention allows students to apply their learning about magnets and electricity by designing an invention.

Throughout Invention Convention, students explore the following concepts:

  • Writing meaningful science log entries
  • Writing a letter of request
  • Estimating and drawing with proportion
  • Identifying problems in elements of design
  • Proposing solutions to design problems
  • Expository writing to develop focus and elaboration
  • Asserting and justifying opinions

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