Design and Build a Barometer

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In this activity, learners make a barometer, an instrument to measure change in air pressure. Learners take measurements with their barometer, then make weather predictions and compare them to professional weather reports. Learners are also encouraged to think of and explain an experiment that could test the accuracy of their barometer and their predictions.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 7 days
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Tables
  • Big glass jar or beaker
  • Small glass jar
  • 2 balloons (1 large and 1 small)
  • Tape
  • Straw
  • Rubber bands
  • Pen or marker
  • Scissors

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Collection
    • Measurement
  • The Nature of Technology
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Office for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (MSTE), University of Illinois

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, University of Illinois, 2009

Funding Sources:

  • 3M Foundation
  • Noyce Foundation