2 Chinese inventions that changed the world

Long ago, people in China created brilliant inventions that we still rely on today. Paper and compasses are two of these influential tools.

People used to write on bamboo or silk, but these were expensive. Then, a man named Cai Lun had the idea of making paper out of wood. He experimented with this until he figured out how to make sheets of paper. With that, the world had a new way to record information.

A compass helps you find your way because its needle points to magnetic north. Early forms of this tool were used for spiritual practices. Over time, Chinese scholars figured out how to magnetise iron needles and float them in water. Sailors could use this to find their way in the sea.

With creativity and simple household items, you can make your own versions of these great inventions, too.

Activity 1: Make your own paper

This is a great way to use up your old scrap paper. Photo: Shutterstock

Materials

• scrap paper

• water

• blender

• container

• frame (you can use a photo frame or stretch a wire hanger into a square)

• stockings

• towels

• iron

• wire rack

Instructions

1. Tear the paper into small pieces, and soak them in water for several hours.

2. Drain the water, and put the paper pieces into a blender with fresh water. Blend until it is smooth and pulpy.

3. Fill a container halfway with water, and pour the paper pulp in. Stir the mixture.

4. Stretch the stockings over the frame. Put it into the container, but angle it beneath the pulp so the blended pieces settle on the stockings.

5. Slowly lift the frame out of the water, so the extra water drains off.

6. Place a towel gently over the pulp on the stockings. Flip it over, and peel off the frame, leaving the pulp on the towel.

7. Place another towel above the pulp, and use an iron on low heat to remove the water. Dry the paper on a wire rack before using it.

Activity 2: Make your own compass

You can make your own compass using common household items. Photo: Shutterstock

Materials

• small magnet

• paper clip

• bowl of water

• bottle cap

Instructions

1. Unwind the paper clip so that it is straight.

2. Use the magnet to apply light pressure to the paper clip, and run it across the paper clip in one direction. Do this at least 10 times, but don’t rub it back and forth.

3. Place the bottle cap into the bowl so that it floats.

4. Place the magnetised paper clip on the bottle cap.

5. If the paper clip doesn’t rotate to find magnetic north, run the magnet across it a few more times.