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Includes:
• Horseshoe magnet
• Magnetic post
• 4 Ring magnets
• 2 Bar magnets
• 2 Magnetic bugs
• Tray with maze
• String
• 2 Snap-on cars
• 10 Activity Cards
• Support Materials (reproducible)
o Prediction Sheet
o ObservatioSheet
o T-chart
o Types of Magnets Sheet
o Magnetic Test Sheet
o Magnetic Sorting Cards
o Magnetic Poles Sheet
Welcome to the wonderful world of magnets!
This activity set includes real science concepts and support materials for you, paired with
interesting pieces (including magnetic cars, magnetic bugs, a maze, and more) and activities to
spark children's imaginations and stimulate their curiosity. Each activity has been teacher-tested
and child-approved to ensure broad appeal and ease of use. Aspects of the scientific method are
included for your early learner "scientists." Incorporate the activities as an introduction to STEM
or as a follow up, to support and reinforce learning. Extended connection ideas further challenge
children, encouraging them to become logical thinkers and fostering self-reliance. Let's get started!
STEM and STEAM
Simply defined, STEM is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
But STEM is much more than an acronym. It is an approach to learning that asks children to solve
real-world problems through inquiry-based problem-solving, hands-on experimentation, trial
and error, and self-discovery. The three disciplines of science, engineering, and mathematics
are clearly defined and understood. But what about technology? In STEM, technology is broadly
defined to mean practical innovation—that is, designing and using materials and tools to help solve
a specific problem. Today, of course, technology is commonly understood in terms of computers
and the internet, which also solve specific problems occurring in everyday life.
Another acronym associated with STEM is STEAM, which adds the component of art and design to
the mix. Art can be incorporated through traditional means of drawings or paintings (e.g., drawing
your prediction prior to an experiment), or through real, 3-D construction (e.g., designing and
creating your own maze for a magnetic bug to move through, from one end to the other). By
incorporating art into scientific exploration and discovery, you tap into the right (creative) side of
the brain to help develop creative problem solving skills and flexible thinking.
Magnets
Magnets are all around you: for instance, on the strip of a credit card, on the surfaces of some
refrigerators, in stereo speakers—even cars depend on magnets for basic operation! Units focusing
on magnetism are commonly taught in early school years as a way for children to explore
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