Magnets resources

From a collection of 9 common objects, students identify those objects that are attracted to magnets.

Task: Select what would happen when like poles of a magnet come together, and explain why a plastic rather than a metal car was used in the investigation. Assessment focus: magnetism.

Task: Identify which actions would make it easier to attract a paper clip. Assessment focus: magnetism.

Students investigate magnetic repulsion using two magnets and pieces of iron. They are assessed on their understanding of like poles repelling.

For this practical task students investigate the magnetic fields that exist around a horseshoe magnet. Students then use two bar magnets to investigate what happens when similar and unlike poles are facing each other.

Students select which of five compass orientations best show the direction of a magnetic field at four different locations.

Students answer a multiple choice question about what happens when a magnetised object is cut in half, and then draw the lines of the magnetic field around two magnets.

Data from a test of comparative strengths of different magnets is provided. Students graph the data and make a conclusion.

This practical task requires students to plan a method to determine which magnet is the strongest. Students carry out their plan, record results and write a conclusion.

Task: Answer a multiple choice question about the material attracted to magnets, select which magnet of four is strongest, and give a reason for choice. Assessment focus: magnetism.