The second graders are exploring how magnets can demonstrate forces and movement. In this activity the students are creating their own compass using a magnet. If you’d like to try and make your own compass, here are the instructions.
Supplies you’ll need:
- needle or paper clip (unbend the paper clip so that it is straight)
- cork
- bowl of water
- cork
- tape or putty
- magnet
Instructions:
- Stroke your needle/ paper clip against the magnet in one direction. Pass the whole needle over the magnet, not just the end. Stroke needle about 40-50 times.
- Tape the needle in the middle of the cork or use putty to stick it on the cork.
- Place the cork in the middle of the water.
- The needle should point in a North / South direction. It may take a few minutes to adjust.
- Compare your compass with a real compass.
