All Challenges

Challenge 018 · Ages 8–14

DIY Compass

Make a working compass.

Recommended Guided Learning Time: 1.5 hours

Learners may require additional or fewer hours depending on age, prior experience, pace and the level of development they choose to take their project to.

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

Prepare for this Challenge

What you'll need

Here's what may be useful for completing this activity. Requirements may vary depending on the learner, activity format and equipment available.

Materials & consumables

  • Magnetised sewing needle or compass needle
  • cork or foam
  • water.

Equipment, tools & software

  • Shallow bowl
  • ordinary working compass for checking the homemade compass
  • magnet
  • tweezers.

Safety & preparation

  • Adult handles needles and magnets
  • use blunt alternatives where possible.

These preparation notes support planning and do not replace a project-specific risk assessment or appropriate adult supervision.