K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Non-contact Forces – Magnetic Force

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the concept of magnetic force and how it can attract or repel magnetic materials.
  • Explain how a compass works by aligning with the Earth's magnetic field to determine cardinal directions.
  • Identify the materials that are affected by magnetic forces and those that are not.
  • Describe the interaction between like and opposite poles of magnets.
  • Recognize practical applications of magnets and electromagnets in various technologies, such as MRI machines and maglev trains.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by exploring the concept of magnetic force and its ability to attract or repel magnetic materials. Discuss the importance of magnets in everyday life and technology.

Go to the Lesson

Direct Instruction

Explain how a compass works by aligning with the Earth's magnetic field to determine cardinal directions. Highlight the interaction between like and opposite poles of magnets.

Introduce the concept of electromagnets and their practical applications in technologies such as MRI machines and maglev trains.

Guided Exploration

Watch the video 'Is it magnetic or non-magnetic?' to explore the concept of magnetic and non-magnetic materials. This video provides hands-on demonstrations to help students understand how magnetic force acts at a distance.

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Use the video 'Poles of a Magnet' to demonstrate how opposite poles attract and like poles repel each other. This video illustrates non-contact forces and the practical uses of magnets.

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Hands-On Activity

Conduct a hands-on activity where students create their own compass using a needle, a magnet, and a bowl of water to observe magnetic alignment with Earth's magnetic field.

Guide students in using magnets to explore the interaction between magnetic and non-magnetic materials around the classroom.

Independent Practice

Assign students to research and present on a practical application of magnets or electromagnets in technology, such as maglev trains or MRI machines.

Check for Understanding

Use the assessment 'Magnetic and Electric Forces' to evaluate students' understanding of magnetic interactions and electric charges. This assessment involves drawing field lines and arrows to illustrate concepts.

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Review and Reflection

Facilitate a class discussion to review key concepts, such as the behavior of magnetic poles and the applications of magnets in technology.

Encourage students to reflect on how magnetic forces impact their daily lives and the importance of understanding these forces.

Assessment and Extension

Administer the 'Forces and Motion' assessment to test students' comprehension of forces and motion, including magnetic forces. This assessment includes open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking.

Try the Quiz
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For extension, students can explore the concept of electromagnetism further by researching its role in modern technology and presenting their findings.

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