Magnetic Attractions

Magnetic Attractions lesson plan

  • 1.

    Children cannot see magnetic attraction, but they can easily observe its effects. Whet children's curiosity for experiments and science. Encourage them to explore magnetism at home.

  • 2.

    Magnets are attracted to iron, steel, cobalt, and nickel. Magnet strengths vary.

  • 4.

    Find two boxes. With Crayola® Markers, label one "Attracted to Magnets" and the other "Not Attracted to Magnets."

  • 5.

    Collect small, safe items such as paper clips, rubber bands, blocks, toy cars, yarn, coins, and pinecones.

  • 6.

    With a sturdy magnet, find out which objects are attracted by magnets and which are not. Sort objects in the boxes.

  • 7.

    After experimenting with many things, describe the characteristics of objects that are (and are not) attracted by magnets. What is the same? What is different?

Benefits

  • Asking Questions
  • Letters, Numbers & Words
  • Listening
  • Vocabulary
  • Physical: Eye - Hand Coordination
  • Social & Emotional: Making Friends
  • Thinking: Observing
  • Thinking: Predicting Outcomes
  • Thinking: Problem Solving
  • Thinking: Understanding Concepts