Magnetic Force - STEM Integrates with ELA in the Classroom!

In STEM Lab this month 3rd and 4th graders continued their study of "Forces and Their Interactions" by studying another important force in our universe - magnetic force. Boston Museum of Science's Engineering is Elementary unit called "The Attraction is Obvious"  is a great interdisciplinary study involving the science of magnetism, engineering design, and language arts. Many of the third , multi-age, and fourth grade teachers kicked off this unit by reading a story called Hikaru's Toy Troubles with students in their classrooms. The story was a great read and set the context for discussions in the classroom and lab about engineering, technology, magnetism, and magnetic levitation trains.  The story is also an opportunity for students to learn new vocabulary and learn a little about Japanese culture.

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Magnet Stations
In the lab, we began by visiting some magnet stations to explore the questions:
"What are some properties of magnets?"
Is there a cause and effect relationship with magnetism? If so, what is it?"

My Reflections on the Lesson

I think that this particular Engineering is Elementary unit is a great fit with the new Next Generation Science Standards for grades 3 and 4. The study of the invisible yet common force of magnetism is as important as the study of gravitational force for elementary students, and the classroom was a noisy, yet focused and energetic beehive as the students witnessed the wonders of magnetic force. I wonder what properties of magnets they will apply when designing their magnetic levitation trains? Stay tuned...