Invention and Innovation Vocabulary word search, scramble and crosswor

Invention and Innovation Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this invention and innovation vocabulary puzzle set for my 3rd and 4th graders during our STEM and history unit. The kids could name a few inventions but had no idea what words like invention, innovation, or improve meant when we talked about how things change over time. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like invention, innovation, improve, create, design, prototype, patent, idea, problem, solution, and technology. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the invention vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or indoor recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether innovation is the same as invention. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple lightbulb, gear, and rocket drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 3rd through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write about an invention they would like to create on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.