Using a Compass
TEKS Objective
The student is expected to collect, record, and analyze information using tools, including microscopes, cameras, computers, hand lenses, metric rulers, Celsius thermometers, wind vanes, rain gauges, pan balances, graduated cylinders, beakers, spring scales, hot plates, meter sticks, compasses, magnets, collecting nets, notebooks, sound recorders, and Sun, Earth, and Moon system models; timing devices, including clocks and stopwatches; and materials to support observation of habitats of organisms such as terrariums and aquariums.
Essential Understanding
The student knows how to use a variety of tools and methods to conduct science inquiry.
Science Background
How To Use a Compass: Learn Orienteering (website) – A simple tutorial on how to use a directional compass correctly.
How To Use a Compass
Learn Orienteering, www.learn-orienteering.org
Signature Lesson
Make Your Own Compass: NOAA (PDF) – Make a simple compass from a magnet, cork, needle and a bowl of water.
- Supporting Lessons
- Extensions
- Assessment Ideas
- Literature Connections
- Related
TEKS - Additional Resources
Supporting Lessons
How to Measure Wind Direction Using a Compass: Australia Bureau of Meteorology (PDF) – Use this article with students to help them determine wind direction with a directional compass.
How to Measure Wind Direction Using a Compass
Australia Bureau of Meteorology, www.bom.gov.au
Elaboration Lessons and Extensions
Compass Treasure Hunt: Earth Easy (website) – Suggestions on how to set up a scavenger hunt for students where a compass is used to navigate to the treasure.
Assessment Ideas
Ask students to keep a journal of wind direction for a week in their science journal. Make sure they keep records of the date and time they take the measurement.
Literature Connections
You Can Use a Compass, Trumbauer, L. (ISBN-13: 978-0516246109)
Way to Go! Finding Your Way with a Compass, Sharth, S. (ISBN-13: 978-1575844275)
Additional Resources
How To Use a Compass: TLC Family (website) – Whether for camping or for science class, the compass works the same way. This is a simple introduction to compasses for students the teachers may want to print out.
How To Use a Compass
How Stuff Works, www.howstuffworks.com
Use A Compass Rose: Eduplace (website) – An interactive game that requires students to navigate using a compass online.
TEKS Navigation
Grade 3
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