The simple tin can can be an interesting item from a scientific point of view for a homeschool science student. Here are some science principle based projects for which a tin can may be used. Help your homeschool students explore science principles through fun activities involving everyday items.
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The tin can and audio electronics
Two tin cans attached with a simple string can form the basic telephone set. Hammer a hole in the base of both the tin can and knot up the string through the hole to set it up. Children can stand apart and stretch the string to a maximum distance then use the tin cans as both receiver and speaker to send each other messages. It can inspire hours of play in younger children. Explain how the sound vibrations carry across the string to older children.
Make a magnetic tin can robot
Use the body of the tin can as the main torso of the robot and strong disk magnets. Attach a set of castor wheels to the bottom and use a hot glue gun to fix the magnets to the lids. Now collect all kind of things to decorate the robot. This can include hardware components like nails, disks, curtain holders, washer rings, and other stuff like metal scrubbers, and just about anything that a magnet will attract. Each component gets stuck to the tin can thanks to the magnet inside and can be removed and replaced as play progresses. Explain the principle of magnetism to older children.
Tin Can Music
Use a bunch of tin cans to make up a xylophone or use them as individual drums. Add some water in them to change the pitch and tone. Use different things like a metal spoon or a pencil to strike the tin cans to change the music that you are making. Experiment with different sounds and pick the nicest sounding ones. With enough practice you may learn how to drum out a simple tune on the tin cans. Explain how the different vibrations give rise to different frequencies. Link it with the study of tuning forks and their applications for older children.
Article Inspiration: About Homeschooling
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