4Th Grade Science, Unit 1: Heat, Electricity and Magnetism

Magnetic Fields

4th Grade Science, Unit 1: Heat, Electricity and Magnetism

Goal: Students will observe and draw a magnet’s magnetic field.

Big Ideas: All magnets have a magnetic field.

Misconceptions: A common misconception is that a magnetic field is a two-dimensional pattern of lines surrounding a magnet, not a three-dimensional field or force.

GLCE Alignment:

P.PM.E.3 Magnets – Magnets can repel or attract other magnets. Magnets can also attract certain magnetic objects at a distance.

P.PM.04.33 Demonstrate magnetic field by observing patterns formed with iron filings using a variety of magnets.

Background: Students will have previously sprinkled iron filings around a bar magnet to demonstrate the shape of the magnetic field. This extension lesson reinforces that concept by viewing the magnetic field in a different way.

References:

Lesson developed by Rockingham Public Schools, Virginia

Vocabulary:

Magnet

Magnetic field

Materials:

1 bar magnet
1 compass

1 bar magnet worksheet

Procedure:

1. Place the magnet in the center of the magnet page.

2. Put the compass near one end of the magnet. Let the needle stop moving. Note the direction of the needle. Lift the compass and draw an arrow where the compass was. The arrow should point in the same direction as the painted end of the compass needle.

3. Move the compass toward the middle of the magnet. When the needle settles, note its direction and draw an arrow as before.

4. Repeat this as you move the compass to the other end of the magnet.

5. Now start again from a different place near the end of the magnet. Go from end to end at least 3 times. Explore both above and below the magnet.

6. When you're done, your arrows show you where the magnetic field is.

Assessment:

Student will have produced a drawing that shows a magnet’s magnetic field.