On Friday, April 11, AFS third graders had the exciting opportunity to host this year’s Invention Convention! Third grade students from Penn Charter joined us on campus for a joyful, collaborative gathering of young inventors.
“This is an annual event that has been happening for many years, but was unfortunately paused due to the pandemic,” explains Rasheeda Murphy, Lower School science teacher. “It’s part of our unit on engineering, which includes learning about bridges and buildings, structural soundness, the ability to bear load, and simple machines. Then, the third graders partner with one another to design and build their own inventions using recycled materials.”
The Faulkner Library was transformed into a science fair–style showcase. Students stood proudly beside their projects, ready to present their ideas and answer questions from teachers, classmates, and visitors. The creative designs included voice-activated swings and imaginative multi-stage catapults—each model offering a fresh and playful take on how we experience outdoor fun. Each team also created a binder documenting their process, from first drafts and material lists to future possibilities.
“The first draft didn’t always look the same at the end,” explains Tessa. “If something didn’t work, you had to change.”
“Ours was originally going to have a crank, but we ended up with a lever instead,” said Imogene, describing her swing. “But I was happy with how it worked!”
“I didn’t think it would be that complicated to build,” Maya shared, “but we had to keep figuring things out as we went—like the boat and lifeguard chairs we added at the last minute!”
The day wrapped up in the Meeting House with a shared Meeting for Worship. Students reflected on the challenges, surprises, and discoveries that came with building something from the ground up.
Our AFS third graders also had the chance to explore Penn Charter’s projects—many of which were inspired by their upcoming Lower School construction—and connect with their peers in conversation and play.
“I was so proud that this third grade group did such a fantastic job welcoming our friends from Penn Charter,” said third grade teacher Justin Stuhltraeger. “Whether it was interacting with them, sharing their space, or offering great feedback on their projects, it was such an amazing display of community. So many friends shared about what a memorable experience it was, how much fun they had, and the new friends they made.”
We are so proud of our third graders for their creativity, resilience, and collaboration. The Invention Convention was not only a celebration of science and imagination—but also a beautiful reflection of the friendship and community that define our school.
“Next year, I think Penn Charter has offered to host us,” Rasheeda added. “We can’t wait!”