Science·Forces & Motion·conceptual
Magnetic Poles
Describe magnets as having two poles (north and south) and predict whether two magnets will attract or repel based on which poles face each other
Suggested ages 7–9
Learning journey
Your child is exploring forces around them — discovering how magnets work, understanding that some forces need contact while others work at a distance, and investigating how different surfaces affect how things move.
Evidence of understanding
- Identify and label the north and south poles of a magnet
- State the rule: like poles repel, opposite poles attract
- Predict the outcome of bringing two magnets together based on their pole orientation
Assessment prompt
Can Magnetic Poles hold two magnets together and explain why they sometimes snap together and sometimes push apart, based on which ends are facing?
Standards alignment
3-PS2-3US · ngss-k5
3-PS2-3
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) K-5
3-PS2-4US · ngss-k5
3-PS2-4
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) K-5
Y3.Sci.FM.5GB · uk-nc-2013
Magnetic poles
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2
Y3.Sci.FM.6GB · uk-nc-2013
Predicting magnetic interactions
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2