Armagh Planetarium Electricity & Magnetism

EDUCATION - PRIMARY SCHOOLS' PROGRAMME
[ ROCKET BUILDING WORKSHOP \| ROCKETS & ROBOTS SHOW ] [ ELECTRICITY & MAGNETISM \| DINOSAURS \| TELESCOPE \| GROUP BOOKING INFORMATION ]

Introducing electricity and magnetism to Primary age children can be a challenge, after all no one can actually see an electric current or a magnetic field. However, an audience can have an amazing time seeing the effects that electricity and magnetism have on the surrounding world. Children discovering and experimenting for themselves are central to this one hour workshop.

WHAT DO CHILDREN LEARN IN THIS WORKSHOP?

The workshop covers a range of related topics starting with the different types of electricity such as static electricity or current electricity. Using household materials such as balloons and woollen jumpers the children are encouraged to participate by generating their own static electricity. Children can experiment to see which materials are good and bad conductors of electricity, or why some materials are magnetic while others are not.

(LEFT) USING BALLOONS TO SHOW HOW TRAFFIC LIGHTS WORK.

(RIGHT) INVESTIGATING WHICH MATERIALS ARE GOOD FOR CONDUCTING ELECTRICITY.

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The 'dos' and 'don'ts' of current electricity are emphasised. Using everyday items, children discuss and learn why electricity can be dangerous and how to use electrical equipment safely.

WHAT AGE RANGE IS THIS WORKSHOP DESIGNED FOR?

This workshop can be adapted to suit any age from five years old and upwards. It is a perfect example of how children can have fun learning about science through play. The workshop promotes creativity, problem solving and team working.

(LEFT) DEMONSTRATION SHOWING HOW A BALLOON CHARGED WITH STATIC ELECTRICITY CAN REPEL OBJECTS.

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WHAT DO TEACHERS GET FROM THIS WORKSHOP?

Teachers leave with lots of ideas for demonstrations that can be recreated in the classroom. All the props used are easily available and we actively encourage you to take our ideas and to develop them in a way that suits your own teaching needs.

The Electricity and Magnetism Workshop is suitable for Primary school age children and we will be happy to tailor the programme to suit your own particular needs. It can be delivered on site if you would prefer to visit us, or presented in your classroom as part of our outreach service. Please visit our group booking information page for prices, terms and conditions.