Amazing Magnets
Active science Series
What’s inside...
Using cut-out photographs and a minimum of text, this book aims to help children to see the science behind what they see in the world. It includes material on electromagnets and suggests further science and technology activities. The book also describes in simple terms how a magnet works and suggests experiments that illustrate the nature and power of magnetism.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you find most interesting about how magnets work?
How do you think our daily life would change if there were no magnets?
Can you think of some ways magnets help us in ways we might not notice?
What would you invent using magnets to solve a problem we face today?
How do you think magnets interact with other objects that are not magnetic?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about magnets to gauge their prior knowledge and build from there.
Encourage your child to draw or use magnets to explore concepts discussed in the book, making the learning experience tactile and interactive.
Relate the science of magnets to everyday appliances in your home, such as the refrigerator or electronic devices, to make the information relevant.
After reading, support your child in conducting simple experiments with magnets to reinforce concepts and encourage curiosity.
Discuss the historical and future applications of magnets to broaden your child's understanding of how essential innovations are developed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: Throughout 'Amazing Magnets', the protagonist explores various uses of magnets, encouraging an inquisitive approach to learning.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions and explore science in their daily life, understanding that learning can be interactive and fun.
Example Lesson: Scientific Understanding
Explanation: The book provides fundamental knowledge about magnetism, including the north and south poles and attraction and repulsion, which are explained in a child-friendly way.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children grasp basic scientific concepts, promoting a better understanding of the world around them, such as why certain objects stick together or not.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters in the book use magnets to solve problems, such as retrieving lost metal objects.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively and use their knowledge to solve practical problems they encounter, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Characters work together using magnets to achieve common goals, illustrating the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of working with others to achieve objectives, a skill valuable both in school projects and everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The book shows the use of magnets in recycling metal objects, subtly instilling the concept of recycling and sustainability.
Real-World Application: Promotes an early understanding of environmental conservation and encourages practices like recycling in children’s own homes and communities.