2. Ask the students to explain what happened. Although copper is not magnetic, the current flowing in the wire is. A magnetic field is being produced by the flow of electrons in the wire. That magnetic field produced can be used to magnetize a temporary magnet if the field was concentrated. Wrap the wire three times around the iron rod and connect it to the battery. This is a weak electromagnet. Show the students the magnets strength by trying to pick up paperclips on the iron rod. How many did you get? 3. Have the students try to build a stronger electromagnet using the materials supplied and the concepts taught so far in the day. Pass out the materials and give the students time to work. If the students are struggling, suggest "adding more magnetism" to their electromagnet and ask them why their copper wire is so long 4. After all groups have finished constructing their magnets, bring them together and discuss the various successes of different groups. Compare and contrast the constructions of electromagnets of different strengths. There are several variable to strengthen the electromagnets. Let the students try a few ideas (number of batteries, more wire, neatness of the coil, temperature, etc...). The variables discussed should include battery strength, neatness of wire coiling, and number of coils. Ask each group what they could do to make their magnets stronger for the next time they would do this