Magnets and Motors (5th or 6th grade)

This unit, which builds on the knowledge that students gained in the STC® Electric Circuits unit, offers students the opportunity to explore the properties of magnets and the magnetic properties of electric currents. The unit includes information on the historical development of scientists' understanding of the use of magnetism, electricity, and electromagnetism.

Students begin by studying magnets and making a compass. They then investigate the relationship between magnetism and electricity, as they explore the characteristics of switches and circuits. Finally, students experiment with three different motors. Applying their learning and experience, they dismantle, experiment with, and reassemble a manufactured motor.

Trainer Tips:

• Motor reassembly tip: Please put the shaft through the brushes of the motor before attaching the other side. This will save the brushes and the motor.
• To keep the equipment from tipping over, tape the cups to the table to help hold the circuits in place.
• Use a toothpick to pull the brushes apart when reassembling the motors –works great!

Interactive Activities for the Magnets & Motors unit (includes Media - Movies on How a Light Bulb Works and How a Speaker Works)

Additional Photos

Magnets & Motors Storyline 

Literacy / Book Lists

Teacher Recommended Resources

Recommended Websites

Sponsorship Opportunity

Sponsor the Magnets and Motors unit! Please contact Lori Kaufman, development director, about this and other sponsorship opportunities. You can reach her at 920-884-8800 or lori@einsteinproject.org

What are people saying about the Magnets and Motors Einstein science unit?

"I LOVE the Literature Connection Books."
--Jackie Coenen, Grade 5 teacher at Lannoye Elementary School, Green Bay, Wisconsin 

"The reading book was a wonderful addition. I was able to teach some reading strategies while teaching science content."
--Shelly Weltzien, Grade 6 teacher at Edison Middle School, Green Bay, Wisconsin