Conduct a Test with Magnets

Magnetic Energy - Magnetism Test

Which objects will a magnet pick up (attract)?

Bar Magnet

Horseshoe Magnets

1. Have the kids conduct a Magnetism Test.
2. Collect 10 or more small objects (eraser, marble, penny, paper clip, elastic, key, dollar bill, etc.) and put them in a ziplock bag, paper lunch bag, plastic cup (I recycle my large plastic Dunkin' Donuts cups!!!), or other container.
3. Give the objects to each child. Have older students divide a page into 3 columns. In column 1 have them write the names of the objects. Have a written list or pictures for younger students.
4. In column 2, have the kids PREDICT then RECORD whether they think each object will be attracted to a magnet or not. A simple "Yes" or "No" is fine. Younger students can use "Y" or "N" or draw smiley faces for Yes :) and put an "X" for No.
5. Then give each child a magnet so that they can test each object.
6. In column 3, they should record their RESULTS.
7. Finish up with a discussion and review of the types of materials that magnets are attracted to (objects made of iron, steel, nickel,  or cobalt).
8. In the discussion, they could also talk about what materials the objects that were not attracted to the magnets were made of (rubber, paper, plastic, styrofoam, copper, etc.). 

You can download a FREE 3 column Graphic Organizer at Learning Workroom's website.

Click here: Learning Workroom

Go to: Free Worksheets

clipart by www.graphicsfactory.com

Here are some resources available at Amazon.

 




 

  



 




 




 



 

 

Have Fun with Science!