An invention is something that is made by human beings and that did not exist in the world before. Inventions include items, devices, processes, materials, machines, and toys from AstroTurf® to zippers. A discovery is something that existed before, but was not yet known or “discovered”; for example, the concept of black holes in outer space. Inventions and discoveries usually come about by bringing together existing technologies in a new way, and they may take centuries to take shape. They usually are created in response to a specific human need, such as a medicine to heal sickness; as a result of the creator’s desire to complete a task more efficiently or effectively, such as a tool or machine; or even by accident, such as the Slinky. Sometimes just one person makes the discovery or invention; other times the end result is the product of a team effort. Sometimes different people have made the same invention independently at the same time. In very rare cases different people have made the same invention on the same day.

• Which state was once an independent kingdom?
• Where can you stand in four states at the same time?
• Which state has the most people?
• Which is the largest state in area, and which is the smallest?
• How can you travel across Alaska’s miles of snow?
• Why do states have names and nicknames?
• Is the District of Columbia a state?
• Why do women in some countries wear veils?
• Which states were not organized as territories first?
• How did the United States begin?
• How did we get the United States national anthem?
• What do the stars and stripes on the United States flag mean?
• Why is the bald eagle the official national symbol of the United States?
• Why is the Statue of Liberty such an important symbol of the United States?
• Why is it important to vote?
• What is a citizen?
• Why do we need to follow the law?
• What happens when a person breaks the law?
• How does a person’s clothing tell where he or she comes from?
• How does the Bill of Rights protect individual liberties?