Strongest magnet (non-statutory)
I can explore the strength of different magnets and find fair ways to compare them.
- Year 3
Strongest magnet (non-statutory)
I can explore the strength of different magnets and find fair ways to compare them.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Magnets vary in strength, with strong magnets creating larger magnetic forces
- Magnetic forces can act at a distance, so magnets do not need to be touching to exert a force
- Scientists ask questions and then plan how to carry out the right type of investigation to find answers
- The results of a scientific investigation can be compared to other investigations that have been carried out
Keywords
Strength - The strength of something is shown by how well it can withstand a force or pressure.
Magnetic force - Magnetic force is the force caused by a magnet.
Material - The material is the thing that objects are made from such as wood, metal or plastic.
Distance - The distance between two points is the length of space between them.
Compare - We compare things by looking at what is the same and what is different.
Common misconception
Larger magnets are always stronger than smaller magnets.
Explicit teaching as well as opportunities for children to explore different size magnets and their strengths.
Equipment
Magnets, rulers and magnetic materials. See additional materials for more guidance.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which material are all magnets made of?
Q2.A magnet is a metal which attracts...
Q3.What does the S on the end of a bar magnet stand for?
Q4.If a force acts without objects touching each other, it is called a ...
Q5.Match the force to its type.
Q6.William Gilbert discovered that the Earth was like a giant...
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Stronger magnets create magnetic forces.
Q2.Magnets do not need to be __________ an object to cause a force.
Q3.Starting with 'ask a question', sort these activities into the order that a scientist would usually do them.
Q4.Which of these are reasons why scientists compare their results?
Q5.Match the measurement the scientist wants to make, with the investigation they should try.
Q6.Yes or no - Do these results suggest that the same magnet is the strongest?
