Many students expect all metals to be attracted by magnets and think that the size of the magnet dictates its strength

Electricity and Magnetism

Misconception RESEARCH REVIEW

Resources to Address This

  • Which are magnetic?  (11-14)
    In primary school, teaching materials classify metals as conductors and non-metals as insulators, leading kids to think metals are special for electricity. This belief extends to magnetism, where metals are assumed to be magnetic and non-metals non-magnetic.

    View Resource

References

  • Bailey, J., Francis, R. and Hill, D. () Exploring ideas about magnets. Research in Science Education 17 (1), 113-116.

  • Van Hook, S. J. and Huziak-Clark, T. L. () Tip-to-Tail: Developing a Conceptual Model of Magnetism with Kindergartners Using Inquiry-Based Instruction. Journal of Elementary Science Education, 19 (2), 45-58.

  • Hickey, R. and Schibeci, R. A. () The attraction of magnetism. Physics Education, 34 (6), 383.

  • Finley, F. N. () Evaluating instruction: The complementary use of clinical interviews. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 23 (17), 635-650.

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