Invention jigsaws involve providing a group of students background information on an invention, after which they conduct in-depth research on that topic. Each group assumes topic expertise, presenting all pertinent information about their invention to the class. As a guide, students organize information on poster board or large sheets of paper displayed around the room. The jigsaw strategy allows students to learn about several topics in a short amount of time.
In the process of researching, groups seek background information on the inventor, like his occupation and additional inventions. Checking the date of the invention will show any significance, as dates provide added insight into reasoning behind its creation, which allows a brief explanation of the invention's purpose. Posting a photograph of the item is helpful and also serves as a point of reference to connect current products that are decended from the invention.
Groups need to explain the reason, also called the Cause, for the invention and its subsequent impact, or Effect, on society. Make a clear distinction between the purpose, or Function, of the invention and the Cause for the invention. Specific examples of societal impacts are important, and encourage students to share how the invention has directly impacted them as well.
The first part of the project entails presenting research, then entertaining questions from peers. If groups are unable to answer a question, the teacher fills in missing information, but as experts, they should be prepared to answer reasonable questions. For assessment purposes, classmates record information on charts, which are handed in following each presentation. Students record the invention's name, the inventor, date of creation and the cause and effect of it.