Polar Opposites (4th)

Magnetic Interactions

4th Grade

Magnetic forces can attract or repel objects depending on their orientation and proximity.

Students use the provided data, visual models, options, and video to understand the behavior of magnets and develop the best strategy for deactivating the lasers.

Students analyze data in the form of a data table, visual models, electronic simulations, etc. to make an informed decision regarding the best position for the magnets.

Students identify patterns in the behavior of magnets and use that knowledge to solve Moodoo's puzzle. They will observe that the direction a magnet faces will affect its force and motion (i.e. if two magnets are near each other with like poles, they will repel each other, but if opposite poles are facing each other, the magnets will be attracted to each other).

Students observe the effects of magnetic forces and use that understanding to deactivate the laser maze. They'll notice that the if a magnet is closer in proximity, it'll have a greater force and that magnets being turned in various directions has an observable effect.

Students explore how the generator and magnets work together as a system to control the laser maze.

Electric and magnetic forces between a pair of objects do not require that the objects be in contact. The sizes of the forces in each situation depend on the properties of the objects and their distances apart and, for forces between two magnets, on their orientation relative to each other.