CRRL Kids: Fantastic Inventions
Annotation:Introduces readers to the life, world, and incredible mind of Leonardo da Vinci through hands-on building projects that explore his invention ideas.
Annotation:Uses computer-generated images to explain how many devices and processes of modern technology work, covering such inventions as Wind turbine, Wi-Fi toys, Simulators, Robot car, and Gekkomat.
Annotation:"Rona Arato introduces young readers to the world of industrial design by focusing on our homes and by presenting the basics. She asks readers to be the judge: Does it do what it's supposed to (function)? Is it big enough, small enough, or light enough for the person who'll be using it (usability)? Is it safe and comfortable to use (ergonomics)? Does it look great (aesthetics)? And, is it eco-friendly? Equal parts fascinating history and eye-opening facts, Design It! makes for great reading and is a useful resource for those who are beginning to think about careers."
Annotation:"Inventions can be big, like roller coasters, or small, like crayons. And inventors can be scientists or athletes or even boys and girls! It's hard to imagine life without Popsicles, basketball, or Band-Aids, but they all started with just one person and a little imagination. With sixteen original poems"
Annotation:"...a 200-page catalog of never-before-seen contraptions that are equal parts brilliant, useful, and ridiculous. None of them exist as actual products, but in a better world, a funnier world, they would all be household essentials. A helium-filled hide-a-bed (hop out and it hides on the ceiling), a tricycle-lawnmower combo (puts wasted play energy to work), and so much more."
Annotation:"Activities allow children to try Edison's experiments themselves, with activities such as making a puppet dance using static electricity, manufacturing a switch for electric current, constructing a telegraph machine, manipulating sound waves, building an electrical circuit to test for conductors and insulators, making a zoetrope, and testing a dandelion for latex.... A time line, glossary, and lists of supply sources, places to visit, and websites for further exploration complement this activity book."
Annotation:"Who invented the toilet? How did the telephone get its shape? Can a refrigerator or a toaster be art? And what does a chocolate bar melting in the lab coat of a scientist have to do with the invention of the microwave? In this fascinating history of everyday objects, Susan Goldman Rubin helps us appreciate anew the things we see all around us. She also introduces the inspired geniuses who are responsible for the way these universal objects look."
Annotation:"Have you ever wondered who invented Lego, Mr. Potato Head, or toy trains? Here are the fascinating stories behind these toy inventions and many others. Learn why the see-saw was popular with the Romans, how the Slinky was used during the Vietnam War, and the reason Raggedy Ann has a red heart on her chest that says 'I love you.' From dolls and checkers to pinball and the modern video game, there's a wide selection here for boys and girls alike."
Annotation:Part of the Smithsonian's American History Museum, the Center's Web site provides stories on inventors and inventions, multimedia and print materials for classroom use, and links to invention-related sites for history buffs, kids, and inventors.