Investigate magnetic fields in a way that's easy, memorable, and very visual. This unique magnetic-viewer is inexpensive and lasts for years once you construct it. Detailed directions included. Use it to test all types of magnets and to visualize the invisible lines of flux they radiate. Great for students of all ages. The written materials are geared to middle school students.
Use this to learn and reinforce answers to questions such as:
❑ How can we show invisible magnetic fields?
❑ What is the shape of the magnetic fields around different magnets?
❑ How does the shape of a magnetic field change when a second magnet is brought nearby?
Once students work through the activity, they can capture their observations using the included Lab Notes or probing questions included in the instructions.
Concepts Addressed
♦ Magnets are surrounded by an invisible field of force
♦ Magnetic lines of flux can be shown using iron filings
♦ Iron filings act like small magnets and will align themselves with magnetic field lines
NGSS
MS-PS2-5
VA SOL
ES.1.c, PS.1m., PS.11a.
Answer Keys and Teacher Notes address most questions and issues that might arise in this study—you shouldn’t have to do any outside research unless you want to.
Materials Needed: Assorted magnets, clear plastic bottle of mineral oil (one per setup), iron filings, epoxy.
Teaching Time: 30 min
Prep Time: Assemble the magnetic field viewer ahead of time.
Student Sheets Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting
