What this lesson teaches
This activity helps children understand magnetic forces by physically manipulating a magnet. They learn how magnets attract and repel through direct hands-on experience, making abstract concepts tangible and relatable.
Science in Action
Can you finish magnetic maze challenge in about 25 min?
Magnetic Maze Challenge
You will understand magnetic forces by physically manipulating a magnet.
Duration25 min
Age GroupAges 11–12
DifficultyBeginner
SubjectScience
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What you need
How the activity runs
The learning connection
Engaging children directly with materials fosters embodied cognition, allowing them to visualize and feel magnetic forces at work. As they manipulate the magnet through the maze, they actively construct knowledge through trial and error, deepening their understanding of magnetic properties.
Try it with your learner
1. Gather a flat cardboard piece, a magnet, and a string. 2. Draw a simple maze on the cardboard with a marker. 3. Attach one end of the string to the magnet. 4. Hold the other end of the string from underneath the cardboard. 5. Move the magnet along the maze without lifting it; navigate around obstacles. 6. Share your time taken to complete the maze with a family member — can they beat it?