Unit: Magnetism

Lessons

1. Magnets and Compasses 101

   *Understanding that there are only 4 naturally occurring - and metallic - materials commonly in existence.
   *Discovering the basic properties of magnets - that like poles repel and unlike poles attract.
   *To plot the magnetic field pattern around a simple bar magnet using a plotting compass.
   

    
2. Earth's Magnetic Field and Effects

   *Understanding that the Earth has magnetic field and that it is similar to that of a bar magnet.
   *However, the cause of the field is due to the dynamo effect.
   *The magnetic poles may flip/reverse - over long time scales.
   *Some animals migrate/navigate using magnetic field lines.
   

    
3. Aurora Borealis and Domain Theory

   *Understanding that the Earth's magnetic field protects us from Solar Radiation
   *Understanding the origins of the Aurora Borealis and Australis and the reason for the different colours
   *Demonstrating the effects of ferromagnetism in an iron nail
   *Understanding basic Domain Theory