P3 Science Magnets Attraction and Repulsion – Push Away vs Attract Explained

Introduction

Many students find P3 Science magnets attraction and repulsion confusing — especially when diagrams are rotated or flipped.

In this lesson, we break down how to quickly identify when magnets push away (repel) or pull together (attract) using simple rules used in PSLE questions.

The Question

Which diagram shows two magnets that will push away (repel)?

Step-By-Step Explanation (Teacher Board Method)

Step 1 — Recall The Magnet Rule

👉 Like poles repel
👉 Unlike poles attract

Meaning:

Step 2 — Check Each Option

Look at the poles facing each other:

If facing poles are:

• Same → Push away
• Different → Pull together

Step 3 — Apply To The Question

From teacher board explanation:

Some diagrams show:

• N facing S → attract ❌
• S facing N → attract ❌

Correct diagram must show:

• N facing N OR
• S facing S

✅ Final Answer

✔ Choose the diagram where same poles face each other
✔ That diagram shows repulsion (push away)

Key Science Concepts

Magnet Poles

Every magnet has:

• North pole
• South pole

Attraction vs Repulsion

Attraction = Pull together
Repulsion = Push apart

Why This Happens

Magnetic fields interact:

• Same poles → push away
• Opposite poles → pull together

Common Mistakes Students Make

❌ Looking at magnet direction instead of facing poles
❌ Forgetting like poles repel
❌ Thinking magnets always attract

For Parents

The P3 Science magnets attraction and repulsion topic builds:

• Logical observation skills
• Diagram interpretation
• Foundation physics concepts

These are important for PSLE Science success.

Conclusion

To solve P3 Science magnets attraction and repulsion questions:

✔ Check poles facing each other
✔ Same poles → repel
✔ Different poles → attract

This simple rule helps students answer magnet questions quickly and confidently.