Make your own weather station with this KS3 geography and D&T lesson plan…

This extended project uses scientific observation to show how the weather we experience is formed by a number of linked atmospheric variables, including air pressure, wind direction and rain fall.

Pupils identify information that needs to be collected, design and produce specialist apparatus to gather data. These include a barometer, an anemometer and wind vane and a rain gauge.

Pupils will then analyse that data to make predictions (forecasts) about conditions in the immediate future.

Individual aspects of this project can be used in isolation – eg. creating a barometer to study changes in air pressure.

Weather station learning objectives

• Conduct experiments and research to deepen understanding of the atmospheric variables responsible for our weather
• Design, produce and evaluate instruments to gather specific data
• Analyse results to make predictions about weather in the immediate future

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