Students can use magnetism to perform a simple magic trick that allows a paper clip to appear weightless. You can demonstrate a weightless paper clip by attaching a paper clip to a piece of string with tape. Attach the other end of the tape to the top of a jar lid, making sure that the paper clip does not reach the bottom of the jar. Screw the lid onto the jar, then place a magnet onto the bottom of the jar. When turned upside down, the paper clip will hang in the middle of the air.
Students can show how strong a magnet can be by making a magnetic chain. Place a paper clip against a magnet, then attach another paper clip to the first, which will now be magnetized. You can continue adding on more and more paper clips to see how long you can make the magnetic chain.
You can end your lesson on magnetism by creating an electromagnet, which is used in many mechanical and electrical devices. Strip the ends off of a coated wire, and coil it around a large nail. Attach one end of the wire to the positive side of a size D battery, and the other end of the wire to the negative end of the battery. When you touch the bottom of the nail to a metal object, it will be magnetized and will attach to the metal object.