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Katie-
Treat the take-apart as an exploration - you're looking for cool parts. Coolest are ones kids can use in projects - motors from VCRs for example. Gears, keys from keyboards, belts, levers, etc. The circuit boards are generally worthless. They can figure out oryou can tell them what some of the components are, but that's a "who cares" activity.
Also avoid disposable cameras. They are a cool take apart with good stuff, but they have a capicator that packs a whallop.
The best stuff has mechanical parts: typewriters, keyboards, toys - all of which are hard to find. Ask local thrift stores to save stuff they receive but can't sell.
Rules:
1. Before any take apart (at home) get permission of the owner.
2. Remove any electrical plugs, bend the prongs outward and dispose of the plugs. (We didn't use to do this last step - but after that explosion at the wall outlet, we now do)
3. No hammering, no hammers. Screw drivers (mostly Phillips, small sizes) and pliers. One pair of wire cutters and a few other tools that you hold.
4. Goggles
5. Stress the fact that you're looking for cool stuff. When they find something, stop and alert you so you can draw everyone's attention. This reduces the "tear it apart" mentality. Keep some 9 v batteries and clip leads handy so they can test any motors they find.
This is a great first day activity. It builds teams, its an immediate start - little explanation, get started, and they create piles of stuff to use later in the week.
For more info, see my books "Inventing Stuff" and "Inventing Toys."
Best wishes,
Ed Sobey
Northwest Invention Center
Global Evangalist for Creative Learning
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