All Challenges

Challenge 018 · Ages 814

DIY Compass

Make a working compass.

Primary STEAM area

Science

The Challenge

What will your learner investigate?

Can you make a compass that reliably indicates direction?

Learning outcomes

  • Describe how magnetism can be used for navigation.
  • Construct and test a simple compass.
  • Use cardinal directions to interpret location and movement.

Connected learning

Science: magnetism; Geography: direction and mapping; Mathematics: angles; History: navigation and exploration.

Dream Areas

Geophysicsnavigation technologysurveyingmarine careersaerospace