Knowledge organiser - Magnets and Forces - Year 3

The "Magnets and Forces" knowledge organiser is designed for Year 3 students to consolidate their understanding of basic physics concepts. Prior knowledge required for this topic includes familiarity with various forces and the natural phenomena of magnetism. The vocabulary section introduces key terms such as 'repel', which describes the interaction between two magnetic poles of the same kind, causing them to push away from each other. Conversely, 'attract' refers to the interaction between two different magnetic poles, which naturally pull towards each other. The term 'pole' is also defined, relating to the Earth's South Pole and North Pole, which are the extremities of the planet's axis of rotation and also relate to its magnetic field.

Additional vocabulary includes 'pulley', a simple machine consisting of one or more wheels that a rope is looped around, making it easier to lift heavy objects. 'Magnet' is defined as a material or object that generates a magnetic force, and 'magnetism' is the force itself, which is particularly effective on metals like iron, steel, nickel, and cobalt. Key knowledge that students are expected to acquire includes understanding the concept of a 'force', recognising how different surfaces can affect the movement of objects, comprehending the mechanics of a pulley, and grasping the principles of how magnets operate. This essential information lays the foundation for the main learning focus of the term, which is "Magnets and forces", and is an integral part of the Science curriculum for Year 3 as outlined by Focus Education (UK) Ltd.