Magnetic Compass

• Making a magnetic compass is an activity that science students of all ages can get involved in. This can be as simple or elaborate as you prefer. The basic idea is to magnetize a needle, which you do by rubbing a needle on a magnet in a circular motion for about 30 or 40 revolutions. Once the needle is magnetized, push it into a cork or set the needle onto a green leaf. Place the needle and its companion in a bowl of water, and watch as it spins and points north.
  
  

Magnetic Objects

• This project illustrates the basic elements of magnetism, and what materials can be made into magnets. Gather an assortment of metallic items, each of different composition. Such items can include paper clips, screwdrivers, nails, soda tabs, bottle caps, coins, copper wire and silver. Test the magnetic capacity of each item, trying to magnetize it by rubbing it on a strong magnet or striking it with a hammer. List the items that have the strongest magnetic properties and those that have the weakest.
  
  

Electromagnetic Compass Interaction

• This project is ideal to illustrate the basic magnetic field that is generated by electrical current, and how a compass is essentially nothing more than a magnet. Using an ordinary D-cell battery, connect an insulated wire to both sides of the battery, forming a U shape from one wire end to the other on the battery. Set a compass flat on the table, and pass the wire and battery over the compass. Notice that the positive and negative terminals are generating an electromagnetic field around the wire. Once you pass the wire near the compass, the compass needle will move straight away from the wire. Remove the wire and the compass needle will point back to north.
  
  

Like Forces Repel

• Using magnets varying in strength from very weak to very strong, illustrate the reaction when like forces are brought close to one another. Magnets have two charged sides, one positive and one negative. Place the negative side of one magnet against the negative side of another magnet and see if you can push them together. You'll notice that that stronger, or denser, the magnetic field is, the harder it is to hold the magnets together as they repel each other.