Second-grade students embarked on an exciting journey into the world of meteorology by creating their very own anemometers. The young scientists learned how to measure wind speed while having fun with a hands-on project that combines creativity and scientific inquiry.
An anemometer is a device used to measure wind speed.
The students begin by tying four paper cups together with string and straws. One cup was marked differently to make counting rotation of the cuts easier. They then arrange the cups in a cross pattern, attaching them to the ends of two cardboard strips. The cardboard strips were stapled together in the middle to form the anemometer's arms.
They then put two straws on top of a pencil with a tack and taped cups to the end of the straws. We held the pencils loosely so the wind would force them to move.
The completed anemometer was mounted on a pencil, allowing it to spin freely. When the wind blows, it catches the open sides of the cups, causing the anemometer to rotate. The stronger the wind, the faster the cups spin around.
The project allows students to learn about scientific observations and engineering skills, and practice their math skills.