Thomas Alva Edison

Historical Character and Science Assembly | Grades: K-8

Get inspired by the world's greatest inventor!

Thomas Alva Edison comes alive at your school through an authentic costumed portrayal of the world's greatest inventor. This 45-minute presentation highlights Edison's early childhood curiosity about how and why things worked all the way through his career as the inventor of dozens of devices we take for granted every day. Edison's childhood experiences experimenting with science and chemistry, and stories of his early fascination with electricity and the telegraph are told through an energetic performance that will capture the attention of your students and connect with them as only a "living history" experience can.

Students will have the opportunity to participate in the program through the various demonstrations of static electricity, send a message on an actual telegraph key, or operate the hand crank generator to actually light a series of light bulbs. Also, students will see a demonstration of Edison's first light bulb (an authentic replica) and an original Edison cylinder phonograph that still works after more than 100 years. Thomas Edison's visit has a lasting impact on students as they appreciate their televisions, light switches, and smartphones with a newfound respect after seeing the roots of the technology they take for granted.

Hands-on workshop available

This program can be presented as a single assembly as well as with hands-on workshop sessions. Throughout the day (or week!) individual classes can tour the activities in Thomas Edison's hands-on workshop. Each 45-minute workshop session, similar to an exhibit at a hands-on museum, is suitable for grades 4 through 9 in groups up to 30 students.

Program Summary