“Do We Have a Deal?”

“Do We Have a Deal?” IVES Fourth Graders Dive into Shark Tank-Inspired Invention Challenge

 

 

Last week, fourth graders at Inspiration View Elementary School stepped on stage, and into the Shark Tank, as they pitched their original inventions and business plans to the “Ultimate Sharks,”  Principal Holloman and Assistant Principal Cole.

Over the course of ten days, students worked in groups through each stage of the invention process. They began with brainstorming and sketching, prototyping, writing detailed business plans, and even applying for mock patents. 

“Every student is given the exact same supplies. They need to go through all of the six steps of invention, with the final step being the prototype they create,” said fourth-grade teacher Kerrie Merritt.

The final presentations weren’t just about innovative ideas—they were evaluated on communication skills, critical thinking, collaboration, and thoughtful design. 

“The kids were excited. They were having fun, and that’s one of our goals. To make learning fun,” said Principal Holloman.

In the end, all participating students received certificates, and three groups walked away with mock “deals” from the sharks. The Alpha Pen, a pen that runs on water and never runs out of ink, was crowned the winner.