A song about the harsh conditions on the 19th century Dakota plains sets the context for research and exploration of technology innovations that we now take for granted. Then young people take up the challenge to devise and construct their own inventionsand then market them to peers as a culminating activity.

This set of activities culled from across the Thinkfinity collection taps young peoples natural enthusiasm for technology and creative potential as inventors. From a radio segment about Barbie to a hands-on design challenge and marketing pitch, the combination appeals to different learning styles and works in a range of afterschool settings. Most important, young people get to pursue their own interests as they build knowledge in subject areas that are critical to 21st century success and make the connection to future careers.

What young people will learn and do:

• research specific examples of how technology has enhanced human abilities
• invent and build their own model of a technology tool
• use market research strategies to develop advertisements and a slogan

Project Duration

From two to four weeks (assuming multiple sessions per week), depending on how much time is devoted to the research component and the construction of the technology tools.

Materials needed

• Computer with Internet access
• Paper, markers/crayons, etc.
• Optional: building materials such as construction paper, cardboard, pipe cleaners, popsicle sticks, interlocking foam pieces, Lego bricks, etc.

Career fields highlighted:

• Engineering
• Technology design and programming
• Advertising/marketing

Academic standards addressed

• National Geography Standards, Standard 15: How physical systems affect human systems
• Benchmarks for Science Literacy, Benchmark 6A - #5: Human beings use technology to match or excel many of the abilities of other species.
• Voluntary National Content Standards in Economics, Standards 9: Role of competition, and 14: Profit and the entrepreneur