Measuring the Wind

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In this activity, learners explore how anemometers work to record wind speeds and how the equipment has undergone engineering adaptations over time. Learners work in teams of "engineers" to design and build their own anemometer out of everyday items. Learners test their sensors, evaluate their results, and present reflections to the group.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Student Resource Sheets
  • Student Worksheets
  • Hairdryer or fan with multiple speed settings (or if your are in a windy environment, this lesson can be completed outside)
  • Foil
  • Plastics
  • Paper cups
  • String
  • Tape
  • Wire
  • Straws
  • Wooden sticks
  • Small wooden spoons
  • Small wooden (balsa) pieces
  • Bendable wire (such as florist or craft wire)
  • Paperclips
  • Rubber bands
  • Toothpicks
  • Aluminum foil
  • Glue
  • Paper
  • Cardboard
  • Plastic wrap
  • Other materials as needed
  • Graph paper for documentation of results

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
      • Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
    • Technology
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
    • Measurement
      • Rate
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
      • Momentum and Velocity
      • Rotation Motion
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Mass and Weight
      • Volume and Density
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Technology and the Environment
      • Technology and History
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, IEEE,