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This is a series of demonstrations about different electrical and magnetic phenomena. Some require highly specialized equipment like a Wimshurst machine, while others involve very simple equipment like iron filings on paper above a magnet, or a comb and balloon to demonstrate static electricity. The lesson plan is a script educators can use while demonstrating the different electrical phenomena.
- 10 to 30 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- Over $20 per group of students
- Ages 11 - 18
- Activity, Demonstration, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Lodestone
- Paper clips
- Magnets
- Paper
- Iron filings
- Balloon
- Confetti
- Comb
- Sink with faucet or hose outside
- Wimshurst machine
- Large Nail
- 6V battery
- Pennies
- Zinc
- Salt-water soaked paper
- Light, motor, or meter
- 12V DC power supply (4-6 Amps)
- Thick wire
- Compass
- Magnet wire
- Electromagnet
- Analog ammeter
- Hand-crank generator
- Battery
Subjects
-
Physical Sciences
-
Electricity and Magnetism
- Electric Charges and Currents
- Electromagnetic Fields
- Electric Circuits
-
Electricity and Magnetism
-
The Nature of Technology
-
Technology and Society
- Technology and History
-
Technology and Society
Informal Categories
- Historical Reenactment
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities