Notes

What is a Compass?
This is an instrument that is used to tell the direction of one point from another. A
compass is an instrument used for navigation and orientation that shows direction
relative to the geographic “cardinal directions” or points. Usually, a diagram called
a compass rose, shows the directions north, south, east and west as abbreviated
initials marked on the compass.
When the compass is used, the rose can be aligned with the corresponding
geographic directions, so, for example, the “N” mark on the rose really points to
the north. Frequently, in addition to the rose or sometimes instead of it, angle
markings in degrees are shown on the compass. North corresponds to zero degrees,
and the angle increases clockwise, so east is 90 degrees, south is 180, and west is
270. These numbers allow the compass to show azimuths or bearings, which are
commonly stated in this notion.
 Why Do People Use the Compass?

The compass is used for navigation, location and direction.

People use it to find their way, whether it is on a hiking trail or
on a trip to a new location. It is an instrument composed of a
suspended magnetic pointer that is attracted to the polarity of the
North Pole. A precisely measured scale is used to mark the
directions, relative to the north. Through a slight left or right
turn, a compass will accurately point to the North Pole and
identify the angles of the other cardinal directions.
Identification
The magnetic needle floats upon an axis, inside a compass
apparatus, to easily align with the earth's magnetic pulls.
History
The compass was invented in the second century in China. It
was first used to align structural and building elements with the
environment.
Time Frame
It wouldn't be until the 11th century that the compass was used
for navigation. The first navigational compass produced by
China consisted of a bowl of water with a floating magnetic
needle.
Significance
In 1282, Al-Ashraf of Persia was the first to be recorded as
using a compass for study of astronomy. The astronomical
compass would be further developed using the earth's magnetic
pull and a time-keeping mechanism to calculate the direction of
Mecca for the obligatory Islamic prayers. It also acted as a
timekeeper that indicated the time of the five daily prayers.
Function
Besides navigation, the compass is used in building and
construction for marking landmarks and borders, and to measure
horizontal lines and vertical lines for maps. The compass is a
valuable tool used in the U.S. military, as well as in mining to
assist in underground navigation.
https://sciencing.com/why-do-people-use-compass-4895046.html
 Activity
Complete this activity in your notebook
1. Construct a four, eight and sixteen point compass and write
the cardinal points of each.