Science Secrets · Drawing 07 of 40
The Magnet and the Stubborn Spoon
Materials and magnets
This magnet attracts the steel paper clips. The wooden spoon stays on the table. A magnet can attract some materials, but not all of them. Make a prediction!
Did you know?
A magnet can attract a paper clip without touching it.
Look together
Which objects in the picture would you test with the magnet?
An idea to try
With an adult, choose a large magnet, a steel paper clip, a wooden spoon and a plastic object. Predict which ones will be attracted, then test them.
For the adult reading along
A little more to discover
The paper clips shown are made of ferromagnetic steel. The wood and plastic of the pictured objects are not attracted by this magnet. Not all metals are attracted by an ordinary magnet, and steels vary with composition. The title gives the spoon an intention as a joke; its material explains the result. An adult prepares and supervises the activity with a large educational magnet.
Sources and illustration notes (1)
Simplified scene and shapes. Models, imagined comparisons and enlargements do not preserve all real measurements.
These links lead to other websites. Explore them with an adult. References identify the institution and the related lesson; some linked pages are in French.
- Science World: Magnetic AttractionTesting magnets with paper clips, wood and plastic; attraction can occur without direct contact.
Source review: 2026-10-12. Illustrations are simplified for colouring.
