Young scholars visualize the magnetic field of a strong permanent magnet using a compass. The lesson begins with an analogy to the effect of the Earth's magnetic field on a compass. Students see the connection that the compass simply...

Students use a compass and a permanent magnet to trace the magnetic field lines produced by the magnet. By positioning the compass in enough spots around the magnet, the overall magnet field will be evident from the collection of arrows...

In this activity, students take the age old concept of etch-a-sketch a step further. Using iron filings, students begin visualizing magnetic field lines. To do so, students use a compass to read the direction of the magnet's magnetic...

Experiment with the compass in this tutorial to see how it responds to magnetic fields.

Students explore the magnetic field surrounding a simple bar magnet. They can drag the compass around in the space surrounding the bar magnet, and observe the effect of the magnet on the compass needle.

Simulate the creation of an induced magnetic field through the use of a simple electric circuit. An interactive demonstration is included.

In this activity, students use the same method as in the activity from lesson 2 to explore the magnetism due to electric current instead of a permanent magnet. Students use a compass and circuit to trace the magnetic field lines induced...

A bar magnet model built by placing a group of magnetic dipoles along the magnet. This simulation shows the magnetic field of a bar magnet, and has a movable compass which shows the magnetic field values.

Explore the interactions between a compass and bar magnet. Discover how to use a battery and wire to make a magnet.

A well illustrated activity where students investigate and draw the magnetic field lines created with a bar magnet and a compass.

You can use a bar magnet and a compass to get a rough idea of the strength of Earth's magnetic field. Read this article to find out how!

Move a bar magnet or an electromagnet around to see how the magnetic fields change. Requires Java.

Compasses and special metal filings help you "see" the invisible force of magnetic fields. [2:25]

A simulation which shows the field of a magnetic dipole or quadrupole using compass needles indicating direction and relative field strength. Change the angular orientation of the dipole, and a movable compass shows the magnetic field...

The purpose, life, and hazards of the Earth's magnetic field are discussed as they relate to magnetic storms. This includes their impact on animals, auroras, and even compasses. Interactive features are also included in this...

[Free Registration/Login Required] A site containing an animation of a compass and a short quiz over the topic.

A unit all about magnets! Explore magnetic forces, types of magnets, and more through these informative activities.

Learn how to make a simple compass right at home. [1 min, 21 secs]

Create a magnetic field that is stronger than Earth so a compass needle will orient itself to the new field in this activity.

In this interactive unit students will see how magnets work and how they are used in some of the most useful and common devices today.

Ever wonder how a compass worked to point you to the Arctic? Explore the interactions between a compass and bar magnet, and then add the earth and find the surprising answer.

This set of activities has middle schoolers using everyday items (batteries, magnets, compasses, iron and paper clips) to reveal the connection between electricity and magnetism. Ideally, students will already have experience building...

A slideshow and a short multiple-choice quiz on the basic concepts and vocabulary of magnetism.

Build a compass to help you figure out which direction is north or south.