Physics · Grades 2–5
Magnets: test rather than guess · Revision sheet
Distinguish attraction, repulsion and the limits of material generalizations.
Learn the idea
Two poles
A bar magnet has north and south poles. Like poles repel and unlike poles attract.
Materials
Iron and many steels can respond strongly to a magnet. Not every metal is strongly attracted.
Contact is not required
A magnetic interaction can act across a small gap. Its effect can change with separation.
Fair observation
Compare objects at similar distances. Keep small magnets away from mouths and follow adult supervision.
Explain without looking
- What should you do with small magnets in a classroom?
- Describe evidence for magnetic repulsion without saying that objects touch.
Further reading and review references
These are reference links, not copied exercises, institutional endorsement or proof of independent review.
Independent educational review required. Grade bands are approximate; these are not officially aligned curricula.