Activity

Magnetic fishing game

Summary
Students try to pick up fish with magnets. The fish have different kinds of metal at their mouths so some won't catch. Can be used as a free experimentation activity.
Science content
Physics: Motion and Forces, Newton’s Laws, Gravity (K, 2, 6)
Lessons activity is in
Materials
  • Paper cut-out fish, each with a paper clip, staple, safety pin (all steel) or aluminum foil strip at their mouth. Several of each kind for each student.
  • Magnet on a string, attached to a rod, for each student
Procedure

Students catch fish, and figure out which ones won't be caught by the magnet.

Discussion:
The paper clip and staple fish mouths have iron in them, so are attracted to the magnet.
The aluminum is not attracted to magnets, so these fish cannot be caught.

Notes

Alternatively, use a commercial magnetic fishing puzzle.

Grades taught
Gr K
Gr 1
Gr 2