How to Manipulate Metallic Sand With Magnets
A magnet is any object or machine that is surrounded by a magnetic field. Common household magnets are permanent magnets made from iron or mixtures of metals and ceramics or rubber. Children can learn about magnetism by manipulating iron filings, which look like powdery, black sand and are ground up pieces of iron. They are used primarily for science experiments. Give children strong magnets, iron filings, paper and pencils to teach them about magnetic properties and forces.
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Instructions
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Teach students about magnetism. Pour a few tablespoons of iron filings on a piece of paper, and then move a strong magnet underneath the paper. The iron filings should follow the magnet because they are attracted to the magnet.
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Create a moving picture with iron filings. Draw a picture on a piece of paper. Pour iron filings on top of the picture, and manipulate the iron filings with magnets. You may develop a narrative or story with the magnets. For example, make the iron filings form leaves for a picture of a tree, and then tell a story in which the leaves fall.
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Demonstrate magnetic field lines. Place a magnet underneath a piece of paper, and pour iron filings on top. The filings should fall in place to reveal magnetic field lines.
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Tips & Warnings
Rather than lecturing young children about magnets, have them experiment and learn through hands-on experience. Pose questions, and have them try to answer them after this project.
Try experimenting with different objects in the classroom with strong magnets.
Create a compass with a magnet, needle, cork and bowl of water.
Do not ingest iron filings. Keep them out of reach of children under the age of 3 years.
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- Photo Credit crane image by Matthew Cole from Fotolia.com
