How can you determine which direction the wind is coming from?
That is the question the grade 6 science students at Herkimer Jr./Sr. High School have been working on during a recent weather and climate unit.
Teacher Kristine Moskal introduced students to a wind vane, which they discussed as a class. Using a variety of materials (think paper plates, plastic cups, pins, pencils, tape, and scissors), students then began to design their own. They then went outside to test their designs.
The goal of the project is to collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses results in changes in weather conditions.
Students also used Flipgrid – an app that lets teachers facilitate video discussions – to share how their weather vanes were supposed to work.
The project aligns with the International Society for Technology in Education Standards along with the New York State Intermediate Level Science Standards.
Student Mia Caliacchia said she likes any project where she can use her hands.
“It’s fun to see how things work,” she said. “I like projects where I can build things.”