You can make a compass and find the direction of the Earth's magnetic north.

You need a very long, thin needle – it must not be heavy!

First magnetise the needle by stroking it with a magnet (see topic 7).

Now get a very thin piece of expanded polystyrene and put it in a bowl of water. Place the needle on this. The needle will slowly turn until it points north-south.

If you are very skilled you can float the needle directly on the water, but try it on the float first.