Project

Objective

Upon completion of this activity, students will have explored key concepts of magnets by examining their understanding of magnets and motion and formulating ideas and questions to investigate as the module proceeds.

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Project Details

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Materials

• Magnets of varied shapes and sizes, one for each group of three to four students
• Small magnetic objects, two to three objects for each group of three to four students
  • paper clips
  • key chains
  • nuts
  • Bolts
• Nonmagnetic objects, two to three objects for each group of three to four students
  • paper
  • plastic toys
  • cloth or tissue
  • coins
• “Magnets Make it Move” handout, one per student

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Research Question: Will magnets make it move?

Experimental Procedure: 

1. Distribute one magnet and a selection of magnetic and nonmagnetic objects to each group.
2. Distribute “Magnets Make it Move” handout to each student.
3. Read directions on the handout to the students and demonstrate procedures for completion.
4. Students work with peers to test each object and complete the handout.
5. Use the completed student handouts to lead a group discussion about magnets.

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