STEM Summer Camp: The Mighty Toaster Teardown

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(1)

Completed by 1 learner

In this 3-day camp, students take apart a common, thrifted household item and learn how it works.

Afifa Saleem

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(38)

There are no upcoming classes.

9-12

year old learners

2-6

learners per class

$55

Charged upfront

$19 per class

Meets 3x per week

Over 1 week

85 minutes per class

Class Experience

US Grade 4 - 6

Sometimes, the best way to learn about something is by taking it apart. In my first year as an undergrad engineering student, I was asked to bring a used household item to class - in my case, a printer - which I took apart with other classmates. 

In this course, students will think like engineers and dismantle a toaster to learn about what it's made of and how it works. By taking apart a common household item and exploring the components, materials and functionality, students can foster...

This class is taught in English.

- a used toaster (low-end brand is preferred*), can be picked up from a thrift store like Value Village, Salvation Army, etc. 
- a screwdriver kit (which has at least a flat head and philips head) - https://a.co/d/hwwUmJd
- pliers - 
https://amzn.to/3PkK1do
- measuring tape - https://a.co/d/g0USCrb
- safety glasses - https://a.co/d/8fNYQPV

* You can message me prior to the start of class to confirm if a particular toaster and materials are okay to use. If you have trouble finding a toaster or other tools, please let me know.

4 hours 15 minutes per week in class, and maybe some time outside of class.

Students will use common hardware tools (a screwdriver, pliers, measuring tape). They will be taught the purpose of each tool and how it is to be used safely. While it is not required, having a parent nearby would be helpful, in case they get stuck on a step - especially if the student has not seen or used these tools before.

Meet the teacher

Afifa Saleem

Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(38)

Hello there! My name is Afifa Saleem. I enjoy covering topics and skills in Sciences, Coding and Math for all ages - especially while integrating engineering design thinking within these topics. I help prepare students for a potential career in...