Multi-use Objects

By Vanessa Vertin Spring ‘10

3rd Grade ScienceNature of Science and TechnologyIndicator 3.1.7- Recognize that and explain how an invention can be used in different ways, such as a radio being used to get information and for entertainment. Resource: http://dc.doe.in.gov/Standards/AcademicStandards/StandardSearch.aspx

http://www.indianastandardsresources.org/files/sci/sci_3_1_7.pdfhttp://www.indianastandardsresources.org/files/sci/

ca_sci_3_1_6_b.pdfhttp://www.indianastandardsresources.org/files/sci/ca_sci_3_1_6_a.pdfhttp://www.sciencenetlinks.com/lessons.php?

DocID=60

Terms to KnowInvention- a new device, method, or process developed from study and experimentationFunction- the action for which a person or thing is particularly fitted or employed

a. Assigned duty or activityb. A specific occupation or role

Purpose- the object toward which one strives or for which something exists; an aim or a goalCategories- a specifically defined division in a system of classification; a classComplex- composed of two or more units

http://www.thefreedictionary.com

BackgroundAn invention may come from a pre-existing model or idea, or it could be independently thought of in which case it may be a huge breakthrough. Play can lead to invention. Childhood curiosity like playing in a sand box, experimentation and imagination can develop one’s play instinct- an inner need.

Stanley MasonYou may not have heard of Stanley Mason, but you have probably used many of his inventions. In the last 50 years, he has invented over 100 items. He created his first invention when he was seven. It was a fishing lure made out of a clothespin. Later he invented the world’s first disposable diaper for his baby son. He also invented granola bars and squeezable ketchup bottles. Stanley invents ordinary, everyday products. He observes people in need and then he invents a way to satisfy that need. Sometimes he invents something new, and sometimes he uses an old invention in a different way.

What is the purpose for which the paper clip was invented?____________________________________________.

List other ways a paper clip can be used. _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________ _________________________________

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After reading the story of Stanley Mason on the BLM Inventing Inventions, complete a list of different uses for several different inventions. Invention Multiple Uses

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Become inventive like Stanley Mason and think of things that are needed and how to fulfill the need. A) Think of a problem that needs a solution. B) Will an invention solve the problem?C) Could using an old invention in a new and different way satisfy the need?______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Describe one way cars have made a difference in our lives.

_____________________________________One use for a television is to get information. List

two other ways a television is used. ______________________________________ ______________________________________Describe two ways computers have made a

difference in our lives. ______________________________________ ______________________________________One use for the radio is to get information. List

one other way a radio is used. ______________________________________

Activity 1By analyzing an unopened can, try to open the can by only using your hands or list ways to open the can by only using your body. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Activity 2Analyze several of the walnuts. Try to crack them open with your hands or list other ways to crack them open by only using your body. (Do NOT put the walnuts in your mouth.)________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

AssessmentA great

invention can be

used… A _______

has multiple uses. Stanley Mason is known for

inventing…

•A. for one purpose only. •B. for nothing. •C. for multiple uses.

•A. one big object. •B. many everyday objects. •C. objects that have no purpose.

•A. paper clip•B. a DVD•C. picture frame