Introduction:

WWW. What? Can you imagine a world without inventions like the Internet or personal computers? In 1977, Mr. Ken Olson, president, chairman and founder of Digital Equipment Corp. stated, "There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home." And, in 1943 (just 58 years ago), Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM said, "I think there's a world market for about five computers." These people seemed to think the invention of the computer would have little impact in our lives. However, we know that this invention has changed and continues to change our society and the way that we live.

Think about the wonderful inventions of technology you are using right now. Just to look at this WebQuest you are using the inventions of the computer, Internet, mouse, keyboard, monitor, microchip… Using these inventions (along with many other wonderful inventions) and following the WebQuest directions you will research the history of several inventors and inventions, gain knowledge as to how some inventors came up with their ideas, and learn the process of inventing.

TASK 1 ~ Create an Invention Memory Game
Procedure:

Your first task is to travel through the timelines below to research the history of  invention.  Go to each time period below to learn about inventions and inventors of that period.  Think about how you use some of these inventions and how they have impacted your life.  Remember to use the back button to return to the previous page and back to the WebQuest.

20th Century Inventions  (1900 - 1999)

19th Century Inventions  (1800 - 1899)

Inventions before the 19th Century

This site has another time line of inventions you may find interesting.

Invention Time Line

Now that you have completed your journey through the timelines, you are going to help design an Invention Memory Game for our class.  You need to go back and choose an invention from each time period that you found to be interesting or that you think has improved our quality of life. Record this information on the Memory Game Cards.  Note to the teacher:  If you have Inspiration, the children can record this information in that software to create the memory game.  Otherwise, the students can use these cards to play the Invention Memory Game.
 
 

Task 2 ~ You Are the Inventor
Procedure:

You have had the opportunity to learn about several inventions and how they came to be invented. Now it's your turn to be the inventor!!
The following procedure will help you to understand the process of inventing.  Follow the guidelines below to create an invention to share at our "New Inventor's Day" share time.

BE CREATIVE AND HAVE FUN!!!!

1.  Brainstorm a list of ideas/problems that you would like to see solved...or things that could be done more effectively.  You may get your ideas from looking around the classroom, your house, or outside.  You could also interview family and friends for ideas.

2.  Select one main idea for invention.

3.  Plan and design your invention.  When planning, think about each step and/or problems that might occur and how you would solve the problem.

4.  Write a detailed description of your invention.  Be sure to include the purpose of your invention and the processes of making/creating the invention.

5.  Draw a detailed picture/diagram of the final project.

6.  Name your invention.

7.  To prevent others from copying or selling your unique idea, you must obtain a patent.
          Click here to learn about patents.

 8.   Print a copy of the "New Inventor's Day" patent.  Remember to use the back button to return to the WebQuest.  Have your teacher sign the patent.  Complete the additional information on the patent form and return the form, along with your written description and picture, to your teacher.

9.  Be prepared to present your invention at our "New Inventor's Day" share time!!!

Evaluation:
You will be evaluated on your invention and presentation at the "New Inventor's Day" share.

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