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Investigating Magnetic Forces & Force Fields:
Building A Compass
Submitted by: Rob S.
Recommended Grade Level(s):
Appropriate for: Grades 6–8
Time Requirements:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Activity Time: 40–60 minutes (depending if data is compiled; analyzed & discussed)
Teaching Topics & Concepts:
• Students will investigate the strength of magnetic fields created by a temporary magnet as well evaluate which material
makes for the best compass directional needle.
• Students will also show that objects exert forces on each other without being in contact with each other.
National Science Standards Alignment
NGSS Standards: MS-PS2-3. Strength of Magnetic & Electric Forces. MS-PS2-5. Force Fields
Materials:
• Container of water (yogurt cup, recycled food container, Styrofoam cup, paper (waxed) soup bowls, etc.). One per group.
• Bar magnets (one per group).
• Compass directional needle materials (either choose one or use several to compare which material makes the best
directional needle)
• One of EACH per group (in order to compare which "needle" works best):
• Sewing push pin
• Small, thin/ light nail (non-galvanized)
• Needle and thread needle
• Paper clip- straightened out and cut no longer than a sewing needle
• "Needle" flotation device (choose one; one per group, as well):
• Cork (IE. wine bottle cork): "slice" into discs approximately 1 cm thick.
• Bottled water cap (20 oz. soda pop cap, etc.).
• Small, thin, light pieces of wood
• Paper towels or rags to dry off materials for each class period.
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