Magic comb

Magic comb

Pencil and paper
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses
a)
Hold a comb close to the very small pieces of newspaper. Describe what happens.
 
 
 
b)
Now comb your hair about 10 times and hold it close to the same pieces of newspaper.
Draw a picture of what happens in the box below.
 
 
 
 
 
  
 

c)

Rub the spine of the comb with a piece of wool and put it near the pieces of newspaper. Describe what happens.
 
 
 
 
 
d)
Rub the comb again with a piece of wool and put it near the small pieces of nylon ribbon. Describe what happens.
 
 
 
 
 
e)
Rub the comb again with the wool. Now try putting the comb near 3 other small things in the classroom such as paper clips or plastic. Each time you try, remember to rub the comb again.
Fill in the table below with the item you tested and your observations.
 
Item being tested Observations
   
   
   

f)

Explain what is happening to the comb when it is rubbed with wool.
 
 
 
 
Task administration: 

Equipment 

Plastic comb; newspaper; wool; nylon ribbon; paper clips; plastic bag.

  • This task assesses student's ability to record observations about static electricity.
  • Newspaper and ribbon cut into small 1/2 cm × 1/2cm pieces.
  • Static electricity experiments work the best on dry days.
Level:
4
Curriculum info: 
Science, Investigating in science, Physical World
Keywords: 
physical inquiry, energy, static electricity, observation
Description of task: 
This practical task requires students to use a plastic comb and wool to generate static electricity. Students investigate different materials to find those that are attracted to the static charge.
Curriculum Links: 
Science capabilities
The capabilities focus is brought about by the conversations you have and the questions you ask.
 
Capability: Gather and interpret data
This resource provides opportunities to discuss the importance of careful observations in building evidence. 
 
Capability: Use evidence
This resource provides opportunities to discuss how information from observations is used as evidence in providing valid explanations. 
Science capabilities: 
Gather and interpret data, Use evidence
Answers/responses: 

a)

Nothing

b)

Draws a picture that clearly shows what happened. This diagram usually would show some paper "attached" to the comb.

c)

The comb picks up the newspaper.

d)

The comb picks up the ribbon.

e)

Answers will vary.

f)

The comb is being charged (because electrons have moved).