Recycle Inventions

The creative inventions of Leonardo daVinci inspire imaginative problem-solving as you design, construct, and paint your own invention.

• 1.

  Study Leonardo daVinci's drawings of flying machines. When were these inventions conceptualized? How are they similar to today's flight vehicles? How do they differ?

• 2.

  Collect recyclables such as wood and foam produce trays. Sketch your ideas for an invention made with these recycled items. Start with an idea and fit the materials to it, or look at the items and decide what to make.

• 3.

  Arrange your materials in the shape of your invention. Glue parts together with Crayola® School Glue, using masking tape to hold the structure in place temporarily if necessary. Dry overnight, then remove the tape.

• 4.

  Use Crayola Model Magic to add details to your invention. Dry 24 hours.

• 5.

  Cover your work area with recycled newspaper. Paint your invention with Crayola Tempera and Brushes. Mix colors to achieve the effects you want.

• 6.

  On an index card, write the name, description, and instructions for using your invention with Crayola Washable Markers.

Benefits

• Children learn about the creative inventions of Leonardo daVinci.
• Students collect recycled materials for their projects.
• Children use their imaginations and problem solving skills to design, construct, and paint their own inventions.

Adaptations

• Younger children and those with special needs might begin by constructing their invention and then sketch the finished product. Take turns sharing inventions and their uses with classmates.
• Try to recreate one of daVinci's inventions with recycled materials. What knowledge (physics, math) did he need to envision his idea?
• Write a story about your invention. Illustrate it with step-by-step pictures of the creative process.