Introduction
A wind vane, or a weather vane is one of the oldest weather instruments used for showing the direction of the wind. It should be located high above the ground and away from buildings, trees, or any objects that could interfere with the true wind direction. The weather vane spins on a rod and points in the direction from which the wind comes.The four basic points on the wind vane are; N (north) S (south) E (east) and W (west).
Task
1. Create a wind vane for Science class on Wednesday, July 1 2020.
2. Use simple materials around your home to complete the project making it sturdy and appropriately sized.
3. Be sure to read your science notes about wind vanes and why we use them so that you can explain your work
4. Make your presentation neat and attractive
5. Be prepared to show the class the steps you took to create your wind vane and how it works.
Process
Step 1. Watch these simple videos to give you an idea of how to make your wind vane.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IoYzv8mz5s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGrclLCtWLw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnZ5LYI19Vo
Step 2. You can use this simple diagram to help you.
Step 3. Make your wind vane
Evaluation
|
|
CATEGORY |
4 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Function |
Structure functions extraordinarily well, holding up under atypical stresses. |
Structure functions well, holding up under typical stresses. |
Structure functions pretty well, but deteriorates under typical stresses. |
Fatal flaws in function with complete failure under typical stresses. |
|
Construction -Materials |
Appropriate materials were selected and creatively modified in ways that made them even better. |
Appropriate materials were selected and there was an attempt at creative modification to make them even better. |
Appropriate materials were selected. |
Inappropriate materials were selected and contributed to a product that performed poorly. |
|
Construction - Care Taken |
Great care taken in construction process so that the structure is neat, attractive and follows plans accurately. |
Construction was careful and accurate for the most part, but 1-2 details could have been refined for a more attractive product. |
Construction accurately followed the plans, but 3-4 details could have been refined for a more attractive product. |
Construction appears careless or haphazard. Many details need refinement for a strong or attractive product. |
|
Scientific Knowledge |
Explanations by student indicate a clear and accurate understanding of scientific principles underlying the construction and modifications. |
Explanations by student indicate a relatively accurate understanding of scientific principles underlying the construction and modifications. |
Explanations by student indicate relatively accurate understanding of scientific principles underlying the construction and modifications. |
Explanations by student do not illustrate much understanding of scientific principles underlying the construction and modifications. |
Conclusion
Older model wind vane 
Newer model wind vane
Wind vanes served as simple devices for showing the direction of the wind and its speed for centuries They were a critical tool for agriculture, travel, and shipping. They serve a largely decorative function today. They have been replaced by specialized weather instruments.
Credits
Teacher Page
This project was given to the scholars to get them involved in and excited about their learning. After learning about the weather and completing experiments on the different types of weather, they are now learning about weather instruments.
The wind vane is an easy activity for them to complete and they will get to use their wind vanes to record wind direction in upcoming experiments. This project also provides an opportunity for those scholars who have difficulties learning in the general class to work with their hands and create things which will help them achieve their learning goals.