How Do Magnets Work? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage

Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn how magnets work. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.

Magnets can pull some metals and push or pull other magnets.

Reading Level

A2-B1

Word Count

196 words

Reading Passage

Magnets are objects that can pull some metals toward them. They can also push away other magnets. This invisible pulling and pushing force is called magnetism.

A bar magnet has two ends. These ends are called poles. One end is the north pole, and the other end is the south pole. Opposite poles pull together. A north pole and a south pole attract each other. The same poles push away from each other.

Magnets can attract metals such as iron, nickel, and cobalt. They do not attract every metal. For example, many magnets do not pull strongly on aluminum or copper.

The area around a magnet where its force can work is called a magnetic field. You cannot see this field with your eyes, but you can see its effect. If you put iron filings near a magnet, they form lines that show the shape of the magnetic field.

Magnets are useful in everyday life. They are inside speakers, phones, computers, motors, and refrigerator doors. A compass also uses a magnet. A compass needle lines up with Earth's magnetic field and points roughly north.

Magnets may seem simple, but they help many machines and tools work.

Opposite poles pull together. The same poles push apart.

Key Vocabulary

Word	Meaning	Example
magnetism	the force that makes magnets pull or push	Magnetism can pull iron toward a magnet.
poles	the two ends of a bar magnet	A bar magnet has a north pole and a south pole.
attract	to pull something closer	Opposite poles attract.
magnetic field	the invisible area of force around a magnet	A magnetic field surrounds a magnet.
compass	a tool that uses a magnet to show direction	A compass needle points roughly north.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What is magnetism?
2. What are the two ends of a bar magnet called?
3. What happens when opposite poles meet?
4. What metals can magnets attract?
5. Why does a compass needle point roughly north?

Answers

1. Magnetism is the force that makes magnets pull or push.
2. The two ends are called poles.
3. Opposite poles attract each other.
4. Magnets can attract metals such as iron, nickel, and cobalt.
5. It lines up with Earth's magnetic field.

Short Summary

Magnets work through magnetism, an invisible force that can attract some metals and push or pull other magnets.

Science Sources

• NASA: Magnetic Fields
• NASA: Facts About Earth

More Easy Readings

• What Are the Northern Lights? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage
• How Does a Compass Work? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage