Researching the Earth's magnetism
Classroom Activity
for 5-11
What the Activity is for
Our home is a magnet…
The Earth's magnetism has a significant effect on what's possible for life on the planet. This interesting starting point can form the basis of a number of research activities.
What to Prepare
- a compass
- an image of the Northern Lights ( Aurora Borealis)
- an image of a migratory bird
What Happens During this Activity
The Earth behaves as if it has a giant bar magnet inside.
You might launch the research by showing a floating needle being aligned by the Earth's magnetism. Here's how to set that up:
- magnetise the needle by rubbing the a pole of a bar magnet along it several times from the eye to the point
- use tape to stick the needle to the top of the cork
- fill a bowl with water
- float the needle on the cork in the water
The magnetised needle spins until it is aligned with the Earth's magnetism. You could emphasise that this is a magnetic effect by bringing a bar magnet alongside the bowl, and noticing the needle re-align.
The Earth's magnetism plays a really crucial role in protecting the Earth and is used in navigation. Pupils could research some interesting , for example: the Northern Lights; magnetic navigation in birds; early use of lodestone as a compass on land and at sea.
Teacher Tip: Scientists have been studying the Earth's magnetism for years and yet there is still no consensus on how it works. So don't be drawn into trying to explain it.
