Simple Science Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Variations: Through Water & Solids

Early childhood science experiences are more than experiments!  Our goal is to help build and foster a scientific mind.  What is a scientific mind?  It is a mind that wants to explore; it is an inquisitive mind.  As adults in the child’s environment, we want to expose children to all areas of science through hands-on materials and experiments.  We can integrate science topics with vocabulary building exercises (nomenclature), examining things in nature, and in literature and songs. 

Simple science tools should be a part of our classroom curriculum.  Some basic science experiences and tools used with young children are magnifying glasses, magnets, sink and float activities, balance scales, oil and water experiences, etc.  Allow the use of science tools and activities to become part of everyday life in the classroom, works that can be chosen!

Probably one of my favorites is our magnetic and non-magnetic variations.

Introduction to Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Objects. 

• Gather materials (magnetic and non-magnetic objects) and a wand or bar magnet in a basket or tray.  Make title cards:  Magnetic and Non-Magnetic.  Place the title cards at the top of the table mat.  A record sheet may be created with pictures of the objects and children circle the objects that are magnetic and place an “X” on those that are not magnetic.

• Children test the objects placed in the basket with the magnet and place under the correct title card.
• Magnet Mystery: Children take magnets around the room and test objects to see if they are magnetic.

Once children have learn mastered the above exercise then give a presentation on the following variations:

Variation #1- Is magnetism strong enough to work through a liquid?

Verbalization:  A liquid such as water is made up of tiny particles called molecules.  In a liquid, the molecules are very close together.  Ask the child, do you think that a magnet will be able to attract a paper clip with water molecules surrounding it?

Experiment: Fill a paper or plastic cup with water.  Drop a paper clip inside.  Place the magnet on the outside of the cup and “pull” the paper clip out of the cup!  Yes, a magnet can work through water molecules and through the paper of the cup!

Variation #2- Is magnetism strong enough to work through a solid?

Verbalization:  A solid, such as wood, paper, or plastic are also made of tiny molecules.  These particles are much closer to each other in a solid than they were in the water/liquid.  Do you think your magnet will be able to attract the paper clip through different solids?

Experiment:  Place a paper clip on a long rubber band or a piece of string or yarn.  Hold a piece of paper (your 1st solid) over the front of your magnet.  Slowly move the magnet and paper toward the paper clip.  Was your magnet able to attract the clip through the solid paper?  Move the magnet up and down the paper and watch the paper clip move.

Try the same experiment with a table.  Place the paper clip on a table and ask the child if the magnet will work through a thick solid.  Place the magnet under the table top and move in a circular motion.  Watch the paper clip spin in circles! 

Try the above experiment with plastic lids and paper plates, clip boards, etc.

These simple variations of the magnetic and non-magnetic exercise are simple and they create an inquisitive mind!