Invitation to Invent

<p><i>Invitation to Invent</i>, a physical science unit for grades 3-4, engages students in investigations and observations that support their learning about simple machines and their uses. Students explore force, motion, and friction as they learn about the six simple machines and how they are put together to form compound machines.<br><br><i>Invitation to Invent</i> was developed by the Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary to offer advanced curriculum supported by years of research. The Center's materials have received national recognition from the United States Department of Education and the National Association for Gifted Children, and they are widely used both nationally and internationally.<br><br>Each of the books in this series offers curriculum that focuses on advanced content and higher level processes. The science units contain simulations of real-world problems, and students experience the work of real science by using data-handling skills, analyzing information, and evaluating results. The mathematics units provide sophisticated ideas and concepts, challenging extensions, higher order thinking skills, and opportunities for student exploration based on interest. These materials are a must for any teacher seeking to challenge and engage learners and increase achievement.<br><br>Grades 3-4</p> Part I: Unit Overview Introduction to the Clarion Units Teacher’s Guide to Content Unit Glossary Teaching Resources Part II: Lesson Plans Lesson Plans Overview of Lessons Preteaching Lesson: Science Safety Preassessment Lesson 1: What Is a Scientist? Lesson 2: What Is a System? Lesson 3: What Scientists Do—Observe, Question, Learn More Lesson 4: What Scientists Do—Experiment, Create Meaning, Tell Others Lesson 5: Creative Problem Solving Lesson 6: The Process of Invention Lesson 7: The Mother of Invention Lesson 8: Introduction to Simple Machines Lesson 9: The Screw and the Wedge Lesson 10: The Inclined Plane and the Wheel and Axle Lesson 11: The Lever Lesson 12: The Pulley Lesson 13: Compound Machines Lesson 14: Final Touches Lesson 15: Invention Fair Lesson 16: Wrap It Up! Postassessment Appendix A: Concept Paper on Systems Appendix B: Teaching Models Appendix C: Materials List References Next Generation Science Standards Alignment