Sparking Curiosity

We know the importance of first hand experiences for children when they are exploring new concepts.
Over the past week, children have been introduced to our deconstruction kit: a collection of decommissioned electronic devices to explore. Firstly children looked at them and handled them. 
They asked questions - I wonder what these are? I wonder what they were used for?
Some interesting conversations around cassette players and CDs ensued!!! Even the mobile phones and cameras were unfamiliar to mist children as technology they come across has moved on so quickly. 

Children were supported by sensitive adults who scaffolded thinking and introduced new vocabulary.
They also used some information books from our Research Library.
Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers were introduced to the area - many children are familiar with using these in school at the woodwork table. Children deconstructed the items and looked inside and noticed the components.
We were clear with children that the items were for investigating and not fixing (one or two children thought that it was because the school had no money that we were trying to fix the items!) 

We are next moving this learning forward for the children with electricity and circuits.