Frugal Educational Project: How to Make Your Own Barometer

bbm barometer.jpg

Here's a fun and educational project to do with the kids this week.

Make your own barometer.

I made the one in the picture with the kids Saturday.

Like the sticker?

We got that from a weather awareness event, thought it was perfect for the homemade barometer my son is holding.

First -- what is a barometer?  It's a an instrument that measures air pressure.

Here's what you'll need:

An empty can such as a coffee can,

can etc.

Plastic wrap (Saran wrap)

Rubber band that will fit the circumference of the can.

Clear tap

A drinking straw

Index card (lined)

Pencil

Directions:

1. Remove the lid of the can. Cover the can with a piece of the plastic wrap and use the rubber band to secure the wrap across the top of the can.

Make sure the wrap is taught across the top.

2.  Tape the straw onto the top of the plastic wrap with about 1/3 of the straw protruding from the edge.

3.  Tape the index card (with lines) to the back of the can behind the straw  -- if you don't have an index card.  (like me)  A piece of paper with lines will work.

4.  Put your barometer away from direct light.  Check it at the same time everyday.

When air pressure is high, it pushes down on the saran wrap which means the straw goes up.

If presser is low the straw will remain even.

For more weather information for kids, check out this site my daughter loves --

Another weather site for kids -- (I haven't full explored yet) is

(The Weather Dude)

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