A magnet is an object that can attract magnetic materials, such as iron and steel.

Every magnet has two poles, and on a bar magnet, these are at opposite ends of the magnet.

The north-seeking pole of a magnet is the part that points north when the magnet is allowed to move freely.

The south-seeking pole of a magnet is the part that points south when the magnet is allowed to move freely.

Different magnets and their parts

Science

Different surfaces: plan

Different surfaces: do and review

Different surfaces in real life (non-statutory)

Contact forces

Magnetic force (non-statutory)

Magnetic force at a distance

Strongest magnet (non-statutory)

Magnetic and non-magnetic materials

Putting magnets together: attract or repel

Blocking magnetic force

Using magnets to solve problems (non-statutory: Scientists and Engineers)

In this Simple forces including magnets unit, pupils learn to compare how things move on different surfaces. In the Forces including simple machines unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to identify the effects of air resistance, water resistance and friction, that act between moving surfaces

In the Everyday materials unit, pupils learnt to compare and group together materials on the basis of their simple physical properties. In this Simple forces including magnets unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to compare and group materials on the basis of whether they are attracted to a magnet or not

This unit explores how objects move on different surfaces and examines magnetic forces, including attraction, repulsion, and magnetic materials. It covers identifying magnetic poles and predicting interactions and emphasizes practical tests, observations, and presenting findings.

Simple forces including magnets

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Use of equipment that may require supervision for safety, e.g. scissors in KS1, needles, paint, knives, cooking.

Magnets can be made from different materials, such as glass and wood.

Magnets can be different shapes, such a disc and bar.

Magnets can be different sizes, such as large and small.

If you float a bar magnet in water, it will turn until...

What does the N on the end of a bar magnet stand for?

Which scientist discovered that Earth was like a giant magnet?

Earth is like a giant magnet because it contains a metal. Which magnetic metal does Earth contain?

If a metal object moves towards a magnet, it is {{}} to the magnet.

Which of these is not an example of a contact force?

Yes or no - Is everything made from metal attracted to a magnet?

Magnetic forces can act at a distance from an object.

Magnetic forces only act when in contact with an object.

Which statement is true about magnetic forces?

bike wheels slowing down on the playground

Different magnets and their parts

Lesson outcome

Content guidance