Grade 3 · Unit 5: Investigating materials

Magnetic materials

Which metals stick to a magnet?

Magnets pull

A magnet can attract some materials. It pulls them towards it. Materials that are attracted to a magnet are magnetic. Iron and steel are magnetic.

Not all metals!

Many people think all metals are magnetic – but they are not. Iron and steel are magnetic. Aluminium, copper, gold and silver are not. Wood, plastic, glass and paper are never magnetic.

Recycling centres use huge magnets to pull steel cans out of rubbish. Aluminium cans are left behind, so the two metals are separated.

North and south poles

Every magnet has two poles: north (N) and south (S). Opposite poles attract: N and S pull together. The same poles repel: N and N push apart, and so do S and S.

A compass needle is a tiny magnet. The Earth acts like a giant magnet, so the needle always points north. Sailors and explorers use compasses to find their way.

Magnets everywhere

Magnets keep fridge doors and cupboard doors closed. They are inside speakers, headphones and electric motors. Magnets can even work through paper and thin plastic.

What I learnt

• I know that magnets attract iron and steel.
• I know that not all metals are magnetic.
• I know that like poles repel and unlike poles attract.