How to Enter and Win an Invention Contest (Science Fair Success)

A clear and concise guide to creating an amazing invention that will win a contest helps readers to generate ideas and make them a reality and contains information on contacting the major invention contests, patent rights, and marketing.

With an upbeat, motivating tone, Sobey offers readers a worthwhile, step-by-step approach to inventing a new product and entering it in a local or national competition. The text flows swiftly because interesting chapters on the how-tos of the invention process alternate with sections citing contest organizations or businesses and universities that provide financial support to young inventors. Although the language is clearly geared to middle-school or junior-high inventors, the information is wide-ranging enough to be useful to older teens as well. Whether readers are just a little curious about inventing something, or are looking for information on patents and marketing, they'll find something valuable here. A bibliography is included, but even more helpful are the easy-to-read charts scattered throughout the text. Roger Leslie

Grade 6 Up-Sobey offers a wealth of information on the nature of the invention process and on traits of successful inventors-just what is needed to motivate students to turn problem-solving ideas into viable inventions. The many black-and-white photographs of students with their creations add interest and may even suggest other possible ventures. The book includes information on how to get started as well as actual suggestions for possible projects. Chapters on national invention contests (with addresses and Web sites) and related programs and organizations are valuable resources for both students and educators seeking guidance in organizing a local invention contest. The final chapter covers how to transform an invention into a marketable product, including information on patents. A refreshing alternative for science-fair assignments.
Carolyn Angus, The Claremont Graduate School, CA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.