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Robots, time machines appear at Invention Convention
St. Cyprian School student George Anderson is shown with his Time Warp Dessert Plate invention during Invention Convention on Monday, May 21, 2012, at the school in River Grove. | Buzz Orr~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: July 23, 2012 6:08AM
St. Cyprian School third-graders were inventors for three weeks as school ended this year.
They made robots and machines to handle practical and not-so-practical applications.
On May 21, the River Grove Catholic school held its 5th Annual Invention Convention where students presented their inventions to parents and teachers.
“We spent a lot of time learning about inventions,” said third-grade teacher Sarah Ptacek. “They learned how inventions can maintain a better, safer, healthier community. So then they had to come up with an invention that would better the world and make life easier.”
“They learned how everything they do contributes and affects the world,” she said. “They have really taught themselves how to work together.”
Not only did they create the inventions but they had to present the designs too.
“This includes art, building and planning skills,” Ptacek said.
By presenting their inventions, according to Ptacek, the students get to work on their presenting skills and become more comfortable with themselves.
Emme Heranez invented a robot that does your chores for you so you can go outside and play.
“I thought this invention would be a good idea because when my mom gets old, she might need some help cleaning,” Heranez said. It only took her three days to create her robot, and both her mom and dad helped her.
Kyle Tarpey invented a door that opens automatically when you want to enter.
“If a robber wants to get in, the door will not let him enter!” said Tarpey. “One day my dad was struggling with opening our door, so I figured this type of door would be easier for parents.”
Vincent Lio invented a time machine specifically to help if he does poorly on a test. “With this time machine, I can go back in time and retake the test!”
Jacob Korus invented a machine that will keep you from getting sick.
“One time my dad had a fever, so I wanted to invent something that will keep others from getting sick,” Korus said. “This invention will cure any sickness!”
Other inventions included a secret drawer to hold valuables and jewelry, a cleaning spray, and a machine to help vegetables taste better.
“I think this project taught my son presentation skills and creative thinking,” said parent Christine Calistro. “The kids really look forward to it.”
Parent Tom McCoy was happy to help his son with his project. The family bounced around several ideas, and decided a magic drawer would be the perfect invention.
“My son loves making things,” said parent Tom McCoy. “He really learned to think outside the box in a world where everything is so logical. He was looking forward to the invention convention.”
Principal Sister Kathleen Klingen was proud of the inventions, and was thrilled that students had parents support.
“These children are going to do big things in their lives because their parents are behind them,” she said. “We have to teach students to be creative and innovative. Everyone here is so proud of them.”
