This is a discrepant event. Ask students to think about how they could find out more about what is going on here. Try testing the small bar magnets against a magnet that has the poles marked. Students work cooperatively and share equipment. Students follow directions and record their results.
Students rank the magnets in order of strength.
Students communicate their findings to others. Integration with Other Subject Areas Math Measuring using centimeters Putting in rank order Extensions and Applications Make a magnet-based toy. Go on a magnet hunt around your home. Find out how magnets are used with electricity to create fast moving trains. Make a Math Facts fishing game with facts on paper glued to paper clips and magnets on thread attached to poles.