---
title: "Magnetic Poles"
description: "Describe magnets as having two poles (north and south) and predict whether two magnets will attract or repel based on which poles face each other"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/magnetic-poles-mt_jgNB2752b9
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/magnetic-poles-mt_jgNB2752b9.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Magnetic Poles

Describe magnets as having two poles (north and south) and predict whether two magnets will attract or repel based on which poles face each other

Subject: Science · Area: Forces & Motion · Ages 7 to 9
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/magnetic-poles-mt_jgNB2752b9

## Ready when they can

- Identify and label the north and south poles of a magnet
- State the rule: like poles repel, opposite poles attract
- Predict the outcome of bringing two magnets together based on their pole orientation

## Lesson: Magnet Poles: Push or Pull?

Every magnet has two ends. One end is called the north pole. The other end is called the south pole. We write N for north and S for south. A magnet's pull is strongest right at its poles.

Magnets follow one simple rule. Like poles repel, so two poles that are the same push each other away. Opposite poles attract, so a north pole and a south pole pull toward each other.

*(drawing: The magnet rule in one picture. Same letters facing each other push apart. Different letters pull together.)*

**Example.** Mia holds two bar magnets with N facing out on both. When she brings the two N ends close, they push apart. Then she flips one magnet around, so N faces S. Now the magnets snap together.

**Tip.** Before you bring two magnets together, check the letters on each end. Same letters facing each other means push apart. Different letters facing each other means pull together.

**Recap.** Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole: like poles push apart, and opposite poles pull together.

## Practice

28 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Magnetic Materials](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/magnetic-materials-mt_9NvuqZKNiV)

## Opens up

- [Magnetic Fields](https://lightmysky.com/learn/science/magnetic-fields-mt_56aspHjU19)