Creative Minds Share Inventions

Second graders proved they are creative thinkers, communicators, and innovators this week. These are just a few of the Mount Vernon Mindsets demonstrated in the second annual Invention Convention. Students were all “a buzz” to demonstrate their prototypes of their original inventions to judges and convention attendees. The young innovators were presented with a challenge to invent something to solve a problem or to make something in our daily lives easier. To inspire creativity, students researched inventors like Steve Jobs, Thomas Edison, and Benjamin Franklin. Through the experience students discovered creative thinking, perseverance, and failing up are required traits to accomplish great things. After brainstorming, making observations in the world, and constructing point of view statements, students built their prototypes for the convention.
Also in preparation, the students were visited by several different guest speakers, one of which was Tiffany Hendryx, parent to fourth grader Fiona and second grader Piper. Ms. Hendryx shared with students the science behind an invention she created–clear rubber stamps. Additionally she shared the power of one’s imagination, and the beauty of thinking creatively.
Judges for the Convention included several real-life inventors from the community and many Mount Vernon staff members. A few distinguished inventions will go on to compete in the National Invention Convention.
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