This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

Building A Better Bookshelf

It began two years ago as a fifth-grade science assignment: invent something new or improve on an old invention. Rachel Kurtis of Clifton, Virginia, knew just what needed improvement: the set of plastic shelves she used in her locker. "It was a pain to put together, it didn't fit well, and it broke into pieces!"

Rachel, now 13, designed a sturdy set of folding wooden shelves she called Lockerpal. In May it earned a U.S. patent! That means that for 20 years only she can make and sell the shelves. Now Rachel is in business. She's built and sold about 20 Lockerpals at $20 apiece.

Next: Keiko Goes Home