Magnetic forces are forces caused by magnets.

Non-contact forces occur when the objects are not touching.

The distance between two points is the length of space between them.

To observe is to look very closely and use other senses too.

To measure is to use equipment to find numbers to describe a feature of something such as its length, weight, size or time.

Magnetic force at a distance

Science

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

Simple forces including magnets 

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Magnet is 200 mm away from the paperclip.

Magnet is 150 mm away from the paperclip.

Magnet is 100 mm away from the paperclip.

Which paperclip would be most likely to move towards the magnet?

Which statement below is something that magnetic force can do?

What type of forces act between objects that are touching each other? Friction force is an example of this type of force.

the temperature of the water was 60 degrees Celsius

Which of these observations are measurements?

Match the force to how it moves the object.

What is the name of the force caused by magnets?

the object does not move towards the magnet

Match the word or phrase to the observation.

Which statement is true for which materials are attracted to magnets?

When some metal objects are placed near this rock, they are attracted to it. What is the name of the rock?

Content guidance

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Magnetic force at a distance

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.