Magnetism Explorations

Our first few days exploring with magnets have proven to be quite interesting. Did you know that if a magnet is broken, each piece will still have a north and south pole? It is impossible for a magnet to exist without two opposite poles. We proved that with our collection of broken magnets- we tested magnets that had been broken into two, three and four different pieces and each and every broken piece had both a north and south pole!

Magnetism Facts:

*All magnets have invisible magnetic fields.

*Some magnets are stronger than others.

*Magnets come in different shapes and sizes.

*The Earth is like a giant magnet.

*Magnetism is a force (push/pull).

*All magnets have a North and a South Pole.

*Like poles repel (or push away from each other).

*Opposite poles attract (or pull toward each other).

This information can also be referenced in Chapter 4, Lesson 4 of our science textbooks.

Upcoming labs will have us exploring the shapes and strengths of various magnetic fields using iron filings. We will also make a temporary magnet and test its varying strength when it is magnetized to different levels. After participating in a Gizmo virtual lab on magnetism, students will design and create their own magnet experiments by formulating and exploring their own "testable questions". 

Check out this Study Jams Slideshow on Magnetism for a helpful review: Click Here

Students, what has been your favorite experience in exploring magnetism~ and why?