A1) Using topics they learned in class, every year our AP Physics students have to research a concept (and/or physicist related to that concept) using our library resources. As part of the project they have to build or model the concept. The demonstration (presentations) are awesome and I never miss it. Students may use or borrow items from our makerspace. Our K’nex are popular with the Rube-Goldberg students. Our program was mentioned in this article: http://www.slj.com/2016/02/technology/making-with-a-rube-goldberg-twist/#_  So a good formula would be – pick a topic, research it, then make something related to that topic.

A2) Authentic research opportunities become a part od their making. In addition, allow opportunities for open-ended, student-driven research…leads them in directions you could never have predicted.

A3) If your kids are trying to “invent” something, consider showing them a few clips from Shark Tank. In addition to pitching what their product does, the contestants also have to convince the judges WHY. This involves doing a lot of research (and not necessarily on the product itself). For example, there was an episode where a mom created a special blanket/coat to go on the outside of the car seat. The research she presented wasn’t on similar products, but rather, was about how dangerous buckling a child in a car seat with a traditional jacket can be, statistics on infant injuries/deaths related to car seats, etc. As a librarian, I can think of so many ways to also incorporate lessons on credibility, reliability, timeliness, etc. (All the good stuff!)