Active learning ideas
Electromagnetism explores the fascinating link between electricity and magnetism discovered by Hans Christian Ørsted. Students learn that a current flowing through a wire creates a magnetic field around it. They then study how coiling the wire into a solenoid increases the strength of this field. This principle is the basis for electromagnets, which can be turned on and off, making them incredibly useful in industry.
Activity 01
In small groups, students compete to see who can build an electromagnet that picks up the most paperclips. They must systematically change one variable (current or turns) and record their results.
How does a current create a magnetic field?
Activity 02
Pairs use their hands to model the magnetic field around a wire. One student 'points' the current direction while the other 'curls' their fingers to show the field direction, then they swap roles.
What is a solenoid and how does it work?
Activity 03
Display images of devices like relay switches, speakers, and MRI machines. Students move around to identify where the electromagnet is located and what its specific job is in that device.
How can the strength of an electromagnet be increased?
Templates
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A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The magnetic field only exists at the ends of the wire.
Students often think magnetism is only at the 'poles'. Using iron filings around a vertical wire passing through card helps them see the concentric circles of the field along the entire length of the wire.
Adding more coils always makes an electromagnet stronger, regardless of current.
While more coils help, the current is equally important. A collaborative data-logging task helps students see the relationship between these two variables and how they work together.
Methods used in this brief
Permanent and Induced Magnetism
A study of magnetic poles, magnetic fields, and the difference between permanent and induced magnets. Students will map magnetic fields using compasses.
8 methodologies
The Motor Effect
An exploration of the forces exerted on a current-carrying conductor in a magnetic field. Students will use Fleming's left-hand rule to predict the direction of force and understand how electric motors work.
8 methodologies