Roosevelt ‘Invention Convention’ shows off STEM talents

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WEST ORANGE, NJ — The second Roosevelt Middle School seventh-grade “Invention Convention” on March 29 gave students the opportunity to show off some of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills they have begun to develop as the West Orange School District provides more curriculum geared to engineering and design.

For the event, which was coordinated by RMS science teacher Tracy Gordon, students formed teams and decided on an invention, which they then researched, designed and tested. A wide range of products were on display by students, including face creams, food items, anti-bullying phone apps, non-tip chairs, tools and organizers.

The Invention Convention judging form for projects was rigorous and complex. RMS science teachers rated designs based on factors like: whether it is a unique idea that solves a real problem; how good the research was and whether it showed it was a unique design; the inventor’s enthusiasm and ability to converse about their invention; proven testing; whether it follows scientific formula; design construction; and an interesting presentation.

In the end, first-, second- and third-place winners were named along with three honorable mentions, impressing teachers and staff, as well as parents.

Photos Courtesy of WOSD