Measuring Temperature (Making a Thermometer)

Part of the "Predicting Weather" Collection

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Goal

Students will make a thermometer to measure temperature.

Estimated Time

45 Minutes

Setting Required

Inside

Standards

  • S4E4. Students will analyze weather charts/maps and collect weather data to predict weather events and infer patterns and seasonal changes.
    • a. Identify weather instruments and explain how each is used in gathering weather data and making forecasts (thermometer, rain gauge, barometer, wind vane, anemometer).
    • b. Using a weather map, identify the fronts, temperature, and precipitation and use the information to interpret the weather conditions.
    • c. Use observations and records of weather conditions to predict weather patterns throughout the year.

Materials

  • 11 oz plastic bottle (1 per small group)
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Red food coloring
  • Modeling clay
  • Clear straw

Procedures

  1. Distribute materials and lead students in following the directions on the following website to build their thermometers: http://www.weatherwizkids.com/experiments-thermometer.htm
  2. Notice that just like any thermometer, when the mixture is warmed (like from the heat of your hands around it), it expands moving the colored mixture up through the straw.