VCRs, tape players, and disc players have motors to turn things and you can use them for future explorations. If possible, keep the motors connected to pulley or gear mechanisms. The Science This is a true investigation of the science behind technology. Kids will wonder how things work and what different parts are for. Dismantling appliances is a great introduction to electrical circuits, pulleys, springs, levers, magnets and other components used in our daily lives.
Kids learn to use a variety of tools and gain much practice in sharing scientific equipment.
The kids dismantled with vigor and extreme anticipaction of hidden treasures. A VCR is a treasure chest of colorful wires, precious circuit boards, pulleys, magnets, gears and others intriguing gizmos. There were enough screws to remove to give all the kids ample practice. After an hour the kids were impressed by their initial booty. After a three days there was a mass of wonderful parts to play with.