Source: Reddit
A Parent recently picked up a small metal item; a silver piece, with two prongs & out of place. It initially seemed like an object related to either a bike or technology. It actually ended being the lead holder for a compass – an object we all had in our geometry sets.
That One Item That Was Always Lost
Geometry kits were supplied with a compass, extra leads, a pencil sharpener & some odd items. The item most commonly lost is the lead holder of the compass.
It is the small piece that fits on one of the arms of the compass & holds onto the graphite lead used to create precise circles. Without the lead holder, your compass is non-functional. The lead holder provides structural integrity & balance to the compass – without drawing attention to itself.
A Small Tool With A Large Function
Although very small, the lead holder of the compass allows geometry to function. The lead holder keeps the graphite lead straight, allowing smooth arcs & precise measurement. Many of the older geometry sets have a very small screw adjustment. This allows the user to adjust how much they want to hold onto the graphite lead.
Using anything other than the lead holder means using a broken pencil or even using tape to keep the lead from falling out – rarely successful.
From School Tool To Forgotten Relic
Geometry sets represent a particular type of school experience – plastic cases, metal tools, rulers with pointed ends, & the smell of pencil shavings. Today, it rests among those long-forgotten objects that once played such a significant role.
Pulling out a complete geometry set immediately brings back memories of the blackboard diagram. It recalls the feeling of trying to get the radius just right, & the satisfaction of creating a perfect circle.
Still Useful (If You Can Find It)
The design of the compass lead holder has remained unchanged. Replacements are still available & will function with almost all the older style compasses. If you are restoring a geometry set or need to help a student fix their geometry set, the lead holder is still vital for the overall function of the geometry set.
Final Thought
The compass lead holder is no longer considered insignificant. It is a tangible link to our school experiences & hand-on learning. The compass lead holder reminds us of a time when basic tools allowed us to create & develop complex ideas – one circle at a time.
