Byars Dowdy EXTEND
Invention Convention for 4th graders
The Invention Convention is an annual competition for public and private
school 4th, 5th, and 6th grade children. The overall mission is to provide a
fun and unique way for children to engage in divergent thought. The
competition requires that the students actually make their inventions using
their own creative imaginations. It is hoped that the development of such
inventions will help integrate many of the content areas. Children may
select from 2 categories:
1. inventions that are games
* entertaining or challenging games for any age group
2. inventions that will somehow make our lives easier
* any device that would somehow make our lives either more convenient or
more comfortable
* personal use, use around the kitchen or home, or school use
Children may only enter one category.
Invention entry:
The Invention entry should be a written, detailed description of the
invention. A picture or sketch of the invention would be helpful. Each
description must
a. state the category of the invention
b. include the name or title of the invention
c. list all rules and/ or directions for playing or operating the Invention
d. itemize all parts and approximate cost for the invention which is not to
exceed $15.oo
e. describe the invention. How did you get this idea? How does it work?
How do you play? What is it used for? How will it make life easier?
Parents are not allowed to participate in the actual construction of the
inventions; however, they may serve as consultants to students who have
questions as they develop their projects.
The dimensions must not exceed 24"x24"x24"