Defining Experiment, Invention, and Discovery

Khan Academy

This engaging vocabulary lesson from Khan Academy invites students into the "Vocabulab" to explore three interconnected words: experiment, invention, and discovery. Narrated with humor and energy, the video defines each term as a noun and verb, providing clear distinctions between creating something new (invention), testing an idea (experiment), and finding something that already exists (discovery). The narrator uses whimsical hand-drawn animations to illustrate these concepts, making abstract definitions concrete and memorable for young learners. The video delves deeper than simple definitions by exploring word origins, specifically the prefix "dis-." It breaks down "discovery" into "dis-" (not/opposite) and "cover," explaining that discovering is literally the act of uncovering something hidden. This etymological sidebar helps students understand how prefixes function to change the meaning of base words, reinforcing language mechanics alongside vocabulary acquisition. The narrator provides additional examples like "dislike" and "disapprove" to cement this concept. Educationally, this resource is excellent for both English Language Arts and Science curriculums. It clarifies terms often used interchangeably in scientific contexts, helping students speak more precisely about the scientific method. The inclusion of a "useless invention" (a machine that turns gold into crabs) adds a layer of fun that keeps students engaged, while the narrator's persistence with his failed experiments subtly models a growth mindset. Teachers can use this to introduce scientific units, teach prefixes, or inspire creative writing about imaginary inventions.