In their science journals students draw a map of the classroom, including areas like the computer center and N, S, E, and W directions. Demonstrate how students will have to get fairly close to an object to see if it disturbs the compass' alignment with north. Distribute compasses and let students become familiar with how to keep the compass continually pointing north. Discuss why compasses point to the north. In groups, students walk around entire room looking for fluctuations to register on their compasses.
Students record any fluctuations on their map of the classroom.
Students return to large group and decide what the compasses are registering. Hypothesize with the students about how an object can have a magnetic field. Follow up with discussion on how the Earth is a giant magnet with its own magnetic field, the magnetosphere. Discuss how the magnetosphere protects us from the solar wind. Assessment Understanding of topic will be evidenced through discussion and science journals.