1. What is a Magnet? Magnetic Materials
When two magnets are close, they create pushing or pulling forces on one another. These forces are strongest at the ends of the magnets. The two ends of a magnet are known as the north pole and the south pole. These attract each other. But two north poles will repel each other (the magnets will push away from each other) as will two south poles.

2. Magnetic Materials
If you put two magnets together with different poles pointing towards one another, the magnets will pull towards each other. We say they attract each other (pull towards each other).
Some magnets are stronger than others. Strong magnets will create bigger pushing or pulling forces than weak magnets.

3. Magnetic Materials
Magnets can attract other magnets but they also attract magnetic materials.
Magnetic materials are always metals but only a few metals are magnetic.
Can you think of metals that are magnetic?

4. Magnetic Materials
Iron is magnetic, so any metal with iron in it will be attracted to a magnet. Most other metals, like aluminium, copper or gold, are not magnetic.
Steel contains iron, so for example, a steel paperclip will be attracted to a magnet.
Most other metals like gold, copper and aluminium are NOT magnetic, for example an aluminium drinks can will not be attracted to a magnet.

5. Magnetic Materials We can use magnets to sort different materials!
Can you use the magnets to sort the various materials provided by your teacher?
How will you sort the materials using the magnets? Discuss with your group before you start.

6. Magnetic Materials
With your group make a list of Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Materials you have in your classroom.
For example…
Magnetic Materials
Non- Magnetic Materials

7. Magnetic Materials How do you sort litter in your homes?
How is litter that we recycle sorted in our homes?
Can you sort the litter in your home according to magnetic and non-magnetic?

8. Magnetic Materials
Look at the rubbish in your classroom. Can you sort the litter according to Magnetic and Non-Magnetic?
Plan your own investigation for this!