Summer SAVY, Session 4 Day 2, “Creative Contraptions: A Study of Inventions” (1st-2nd)
We had a delightful second day of Creative Contraptions! We started our day focusing on creative problem-solving and the problem-solving process as a way to scaffold invention strategies. We began by brainstorming possible solutions to a common problem: Noise in the cafeteria. We explored the problem, then worked in small groups to brainstorm solutions. Each group then determined its top solution. Next, students engaged in conversations to develop a plan of action, discussing questions such as “What needs to be done? In what order? Who can do it? When should it happen?” The students came up with fantastic “top solutions,” including rubber floors and chairs with wheels to help reduce chair noise and switching out the large cafeteria tables for smaller ones to create smaller groups and promote quieter conversations. Finally, the groups then created posters to share their solution to the problem.
After a morning snack, it was time to conduct another experiment. We continued our study of friction by comparing the frictional properties of multiple surfaces on a ramp. The students once again raced cars down the ramp, this time comparing each of the rough surfaces to determine which created the most and least friction. Students recorded the results on their data sheets and interpreted the data to make a list of the surfaces in order from most to least friction. Ask your student to tell you about the results of their experiment!
We took a midday break for our lunch, followed by some time outdoors. After our break, students used the problem-solving process once again – this time to redesign cars to make an improvement in one area. Students worked to brainstorm all things that could go wrong with cars. After creating a list, they voted as a group to solve the issue of windshields getting broken. Ask your child what their top solutions were to solve this problem.
We had an afternoon snack and then read part of Mistakes That Worked. Ask your student to share some of the inventions that were “mistakes”. Just like the inventors from the story, we began to brainstorm a list of problems that we would like to solve. Throughout the rest of the week, students will work to create and design an invention using a simple machine to solve a problem. Tonight, consider helping your child through the brainstorming process by talking with them about possible problems to be solved and inventions to be created.
