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In this activity, teams of learners study magnetic fields at four separate stations: examining magnetic fields generated by everyday items, mapping out a magnetic field using a compass, creating models of Earth's and Jupiter's magnetic fields, and observing aurora produced by magnetic fields on both planets. This activity allows learners to do their own planetary investigations, similar to the research of the Juno mission.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- Over $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- 1 set of signs printed on card stock
- Tape
- 3 flat compasses with transparent faces OR 3 Magnaprobes
- 2 (3" long) strong magnets such as cow magnets
- 2 flat Alnico bar magnets
- A variety of magnetic household materials, such as paper clips, nails, staples, refrigerator magnets, metal spoons, tin-can lids, etc.
- A variety of nonmagnetic household materials, such as a wooden or plastic top, rocks (not lodestone), aluminum foil, copper wire, paper, wood, soda straws, copper pennies, corks, etc.
- 1 cup containing about 100 "clamped" staples (that have been stapled but not to paper)
- 1 (8-9" diameter) paper plate
- 1 (3") Styrofoam ball
- Computer and speakers (optional)
- Video of Jupiter's aurora (optional)
- Sounds of Jupiter's magnetosphere (optional)
- Sounds of Earth's aurora (optional)
- Images of Jupiter's aurora, printed preferably in color
- "Earth's and Jupiter's Magnetic Fields" handout
- "Neato-Magneto Planets" pages
- Pencils or pens
- 1 bell (optional)
Subjects
-
Earth and Space Science
-
Astronomy
- Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
- Earth Structure
-
Solar System
- The Planets
-
Astronomy
-
Physical Sciences
-
Electricity and Magnetism
- Electric Charges and Currents
- Electromagnetic Fields
-
Electricity and Magnetism
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
-
Engineering
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
-
The Scientific Process
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
- Background Information: Secrets of the Solar System Family
- Shopping List
- "My Trip to Jupiter" Journal
- Facilitator’s Guide to Magnetism
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- Department of Education and Public Outreach, Lunar and Planetary Institute; Juno Education and Public Outreach, NASA
Rights:
Funding Source:
- NASA