What a Magnet Does
A magnet can pull, or attract, some objects to it. It attracts things made of iron and steel. A magnet cannot attract things made of paper, plastic, wood or rubber.
Key idea
A magnet attracts objects made of iron and steel. It does not attract plastic, paper or wood.
How We Use Magnets
Magnets are useful at home and at school. Here are some uses:
- A fridge magnet holds notes and photos on the fridge door.
- A compass uses a magnet to show which way is north.
- Some pencil cases and doors close with a magnet.
Example
When you put a paper clip near a magnet, the magnet pulls the clip because it is made of steel.