Give your class a magnetic charge with this creative experiment designed to teach emerging scientists about electromagnetism. Pupils construct a model that demonstrates the function of an electrical generator and test this creation in a controlled environment. They conclude by participating in a discussion on energy and electricity.

Concepts

electrical energy, electromagnetism, magnetic fields

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Hold a class discussion about the importance of magnetism in relation to Earth's atmosphere
• Research electrical power plants and discuss their importance as well as the risk factors they pose on those who live nearby

Classroom Considerations

• Ensure magnets are not held near anything that could be damaged as a result

Pros

• Cleanup is minimal, and materials used are nontoxic
• Provides the ability to expand this lesson and relate it to daily occurrences in our local environment

Cons

• Does not include a formal assessment or worksheet as a concluding piece to the activity