Materials You’ll Need
- Plastic cups (3)
- Straws (4)
- Pushpin
- Cardboard
- Ruler
- Thumbtack
- Tape
- Marker
Step 1: Preparing the Cups
Begin by using the pushpin to make a small hole near the bottom of each plastic cup. These holes will be used to attach the cups to the anemometer.
Step 2: Creating the Base
Take the cardboard and cut out a square base measuring about 6 inches on each side. Make sure the base is sturdy enough to support the anemometer.
Step 3: Attaching the Cups
Using the pushpin, poke a hole at the center of the base. Take one of the cups and insert a straw through the hole in the cup, allowing the straw to stick out on both sides. Secure the cup to the base by taping the exposed ends of the straw. Repeat this process for the other two cups, evenly spacing them around the base.
Step 4: Making the Wind Vane
Create a wind vane by cutting a small arrow shape out of the cardboard. Make sure it is wide enough to be easily seen and emphasized with a marker.
Step 5: Attaching the Wind Vane
Use the thumbtack to attach the wind vane to the top of a straw. The straw should be able to rotate freely as the wind blows, so make sure it is secure but not too tight.
Step 6: Final Touches
Find a suitable location to place your anemometer. A windowsill or an open area with good air circulation is ideal. Ensure that the cups and wind vane are freely moving and not obstructed by any objects.
Using Your Anemometer
To measure wind speed, simply observe the rotation of the cups as the wind blows. You can even mark the base with different wind speed ranges for easy interpretation. Use an online weather resource or a weather station to match the wind speed with corresponding Beaufort scale descriptions.
Building a kid-friendly anemometer is an excellent way to spark your child’s curiosity about weather and science. This simple project will not only entertain them but also teach them valuable skills like observation, measurement, and critical thinking. So, grab your materials and get ready to explore the world of wind!