C

This week we did our lesson on electricity. We began by introducing the electromagnet as a magnet that is created by an electric current. The students made simple electromagnets that could pick up paperclips. We used copper wire, an iron nail, and two AA batteries. We did this activity for about 15 minutes and then discussed it.

After making an electromagnet the students did the super sparker activity designed by Andrea. We began with a powerpoint presentation about lightning, electrons and protons.  Using tin pie pans and styrofoam plates the students were able to create sparks that looked like lightning. The students had a difficult time following directions, but when they did the activity correctly it worked well. 

This lesson seemed to work well within the hour we had. I think that pairing the electromagnet activity and the super sparker activity works well for fifth grade.