How to Make Science Inventions

Science inventions are fun projects. You can create something completely new and that you can use every day. Every single tool you use today was invented by someone else. Yet, there are many more tools waiting to be invented and improve lives everywhere. Never pressure yourself to create the next best-seller or high-tech gadget; a science invention gives you the opportunity to engineer a simple tool that may be the foundation for many more inventions. Be creative, and remember that the most simple ideas are often the most effective.

Brainstorm the Invention

• 1

  Brainstorm about activities that you do every day. Is there any way for you to make any of these jobs easier?

  Examine simple, non-electric machines--such as levers, pulleys, wheels and axels--and think about how these simple machines could be changed to simplify an activity or task.

• 2

  Remember that your invention does not need to be a machine. It can be a new product or object to help your life be better. For example, a 10-year-old girl invented "Wristies," a warm wrist wrap that can be worn underneath a coat and gloves.

• 3

  Once you have decided what you would like to invent and its purpose, organize your thoughts about how you will construct the invention. Write down possible materials, the necessary tools and construction process. These notes will be very useful for teachers and judges.

Construct the Invention

• 1

  Gather the necessary materials and tools for construction. Do not use expensive or rare materials so mistakes are not costly. Construct the invention.

• 2

  Use your invention several times, taking careful notes on its effectiveness, quality and usefulness. Ask a friend to use the invention and give you feedback.

• 3

  Write down your ideas of how to create a better version of this invention. Construct the invention a second time using these ideas. Evaluate this version in the same manner as before, determining if you feel it is necessary to improve the invention further.

• 4

  If necessary, construct a third, improved invention.

• 5

  Write down your reaction to the process of inventing. What would you have done differently? Did you enjoy thinking creatively and inventing? Did you enjoy constructing? What was your favorite aspect of the inventing process?