1. On a bulletin board or in a showcase, display copies of the students" patent applications and their invention prototypes, along with the primary source illustrations and patents from historic Pennsylvania inventors. Entitle the display "Pennsylvania Inventors' Hall of Fame." 2. Research the life of a Pennsylvania inventor and trace the significance of their invention(s) throughout Pennsylvania and United States History. 3. Invite a patent holder or a patent attorney to speak to the class about the process of applying for and receiving a patent.

U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Museum and Store
600 Dulany Street
Alexandria, VA
(571) 272-8400

This museum is devoted to the history of patents and trademarks. Located within the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the Museum strives to educate the public about the patent and trademark systems, and the important role intellectual property protection plays in our nation's social and economic health. School and group tours are welcome at the museum. Please contact the Office of Public Affairs at (571) 272-8400 at least two weeks ahead of time to schedule a tour

The State Museum of Pennsylvania
300 North Street
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 787-4980
Students can see inventions by Pennsylvania inventors throughout the past 300 years. Especially interesting to elementary-age students are the displays on the second floor which trace the history of technological innovation throughout Pennsylvania history. Please call the reservation line at (717) 772-6997 to schedule your visit.

The Franklin Institute
222 North 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 448-1200
The Franklin Institute has many displays and demonstrations that relate to science and technology. For information about field trips, visit the website at www.fi.edu/visit.html or call the reservation line at 1-800-285-0684 for pricing and scheduling information.