Magnets: Attract and Repel

This comprehensive resource, “Magnets: Attract and Repel,” introduces young readers to the fundamental properties of magnets, focusing on attraction and repulsion. It uses simple explanations and engaging activities to build a basic understanding of magnetic forces. The resource culminates in a hands-on experiment using common classroom objects.

Key Learning Objectives
Students will learn:

What a magnet is and the concept of an invisible magnetic field.

The meaning of attraction (pulling closer) and repulsion (pushing away).

Which materials are attracted to magnets (specifically iron, nickel, and cobalt).

Examples of materials that are not magnetic (e.g., plastic, wood, paper, cloth).

The role of the magnet’s North and South poles.

The rules of magnetic poles: opposite poles attract (North-South) and like poles repel (North-North, South-South).

Hands-On Experiment & Activity
The included Experiment Time: What Sticks to a Magnet? provides a structured, practical activity.

Materials: Requires a magnet and common items (e.g., paperclips, pencils, aluminum foil).

Instructions: Includes steps for making predictions, testing each object, and recording results.

Analysis: Students are guided to analyze their findings to understand what makes certain materials magnetic.

Additional Content
The resource also explores the practical application of magnets with examples of “Magnets All Around Us,” including uses in refrigerators, speakers, motors, compasses, and MRI machines.

Perfect For:
Primary/Elementary Science Lessons

Introduction to Physical Science

Interactive Classroom Activities

Reinforcing the Scientific Method (Predict, Test, Record)