Dear 4th Grade Parents,
The 4th graders are beginning a new science unit using the
FOSS Magnetism and Electricity Module.
We will investigate permanent magnets, build electric circuits powered
by D-Cells (flashlight batteries), and
explore electromagnetism.
You can increase your child's understanding and interest in
magnetism and electricity by asking him or her to talk about the investigations
we are doing at school. Also, watch for
the Home/School Connections sheets that I will be sending home from time to
time. These activities describe ways the
whole family can look more closely at magnetism and electricity at home. You may find magnets at work holding notes on
the refrigerator or securing cabinets closed; electricity powering lamps,
televisions, and flashlights; and electromagnets in motors and speakers. It can be lots of fun to make inventories of
magnets and electrical appliances.
To help your child investigate circuitry you may provide an
old broken appliances for him or her to take apart. You can explore the appliance together to
discover how it is wired and where the connections are made.
One thing we will stress in our study of magnetism and
electricity at school is SAFETY. You may
want to review your home safety rules for magnetism and electricity as well.
Never put any object other than a certified plug into wall
sockets.
Do not open the case of an electrical appliance that is
plugged in.
Do not bring magnets near computers, videotapes, or audio
recording.
We are looking forward to many weeks of exciting
investigations with this Magnetism and Electricity Module. If you have any questions or comments, or
have expertise you would like to share with the class, please drop me a note.
Mrs. Newlin
