Invention Dimension is an exciting hands-on look at the science of inventing. Starting at the beginning, we take a look at serendipity and see that sometimes inventions are discovered by accident. Then we visit the science behind some of the greatest inventions of all time: simple machines, electricity, and the airplane. Finally, having been truly inspired, the children use the scientific method to invent and design a shock detector to protect an LED ball from a 6-foot drop.

Magnetic Slime – An invention is a new idea or object that can be created by accident or on purpose. Sometimes, the greatest inventions are discovered by accident. The children learn about serendipity and discover the world of polymers and magnetism as they create Gizmo’s latest slime invention, Magnetic Slime.

Medieval Levers – Inventions often times make work easier to do. The children are introduced to arguably the most important inventions of all time, simple machines. They learn about mechanical advantage by experimenting with levers and building a K’nex Trebuchet able to launch marshmallows.

Noodle Doodle – The discovery of current electricity has led many inventors to get powered up and motorized. The children get a first hand look at electrical circuits and motors by building Gizmo’s latest top secret invention, a motorized pen, cod named the Noodle Doodle.

Wright Flight –The children “Take-Off” as they learn how two extraordinary inventors, Wilbur and Orville Wright, combined ingenuity and careful science to be the first humans to fly! The children get a firsthand look how the Wright’s balanced lift, thrust, weight, and drag to create the world’s first heavier-than-air flying machine. Putting theory into practice, the children build and experiment with a flying propeller-powered model airplane.

LED Light Drop – Put your thinking caps on! It’s time for the Invention Dimension challenge! Using the scientific method, the children learn about forces and momentum to design and build a container able to cradle an L.E.D. shock detector through a six-foot drop. Do you have what it takes to create an invention that prevents the light from lighting up?