GCSE Physics Investigating Electromagnets: Complete Lesson

This “Investigating Electromagnets” PowerPoint lesson is designed for AQA GCSE Physics students, focusing on the factors that affect the strength of an electromagnet. The lesson covers the relationship between current, coils, and magnetic field strength, and includes a required practical investigation where students experiment with different variables to understand electromagnetism.

The lesson begins with a starter activity prompting students to recall prior knowledge about magnetic fields around current-carrying wires and how they can be made stronger. Students consider how the shape of a wire, current strength, and presence of a core influence the magnetic field of a solenoid.

Students then explore the key principles of electromagnetism, including how electromagnets differ from permanent magnets, the role of iron cores in increasing magnetic strength, and real-world applications such as scrapyard cranes and electric motors. The lesson outlines the three key factors that increase electromagnet strength:

• Increasing the current in the wire.
• Increasing the number of coils in the solenoid.
• Using an iron core instead of air or other materials.

The practical investigation involves students building and testing electromagnets to examine how coil number affects magnetic strength. Using an iron nail, insulated wire, and paperclips, students systematically test different coil numbers and measure how many paperclips are picked up. They record data in a results table and analyze the trend by plotting a graph of coils vs. paperclips lifted.

A strong focus is placed on scientific investigation skills, including:
Identifying variables (independent, dependent, and control).
Writing a method with clear, sequential steps.
Analyzing results and forming a conclusion based on collected data.
Evaluating reliability and discussing improvements for greater accuracy.

The lesson concludes with a six-mark exam-style question. Structured guidance is provided, ensuring students can confidently describe how electromagnets function and how their strength can be adjusted.

Updated in February 2025, this editable PowerPoint (.pptx) file is designed for AQA GCSE Physics students. With structured explanations, hands-on investigation, and real-world applications, this resource is ideal for mastering electromagnetism and practical experimentation in GCSE Physics.