Sun and shade temperature experiment for kids
For students comparing outdoor temperatures at different locations. Choose a supervised school area and avoid looking directly at the sun.
What to buy
Outdoor thermometers
2
Clipboards
1 per group
Temperature data sheets
1 per student
Pencils
1 per student
Digital timers
1 per group
Masking tape
1 roll
Location labels
6
Sun hats
1 per student
Reusable water bottles
1 per student
Schoolyard map printouts
1 per group
Who this list is for
Students comparing sun and shade temperatures in a supervised school area can use this temperature experiment list. It is for outdoor location comparisons, with clear sun-safety expectations and no direct looking at the sun.
How to use this list
Choose and label the planned locations on schoolyard map printouts. Use location labels and masking tape where needed, then assign an outdoor thermometer, clipboard, digital timer, pencils, and temperature data sheets to each group. Students should take readings at the same scheduled times and record the location for every number.
Common mistakes
Do not point thermometers at the sun or ask students to stare toward it. Avoid comparing readings taken at different times without noting the difference. A sunny spot and a shaded spot should be clearly identified on the schoolyard map. Bring reusable water bottles and sun hats for the outdoor portion rather than treating them as optional afterthoughts.
What is on this list
This list includes two outdoor thermometers, clipboards, temperature data sheets, pencils, digital timers, masking tape, six location labels, sun hats, reusable water bottles, and schoolyard map printouts. Cross off clipboards, pencils, timers, or water bottles that students already have.
Before you go
Confirm the supervised school area and review the route and boundaries with the class. Check both thermometers, print maps and data sheets, and make sure every student has a sun hat and reusable water bottle. Set the observation schedule before leaving the classroom.
FAQ
Who is "Sun and shade temperature experiment for kids" for?
Students comparing sun and shade temperatures in a supervised school area can use this temperature experiment list. It is for outdoor location comparisons, with clear sun-safety expectations and no direct looking at the sun.
How should I use "Sun and shade temperature experiment for kids"?
Choose and label the planned locations on schoolyard map printouts. Use location labels and masking tape where needed, then assign an outdoor thermometer, clipboard, digital timer, pencils, and temperature data sheets to each group. Students should take readings at the same scheduled times and record the location for every number.
What should I skip or avoid with "Sun and shade temperature experiment for kids"?
Do not point thermometers at the sun or ask students to stare toward it. Avoid comparing readings taken at different times without noting the difference. A sunny spot and a shaded spot should be clearly identified on the schoolyard map. Bring reusable water bottles and sun hats for the outdoor portion rather than treating them as optional afterthoughts.
What is on the "Sun and shade temperature experiment for kids" list?
This list includes two outdoor thermometers, clipboards, temperature data sheets, pencils, digital timers, masking tape, six location labels, sun hats, reusable water bottles, and schoolyard map printouts. Cross off clipboards, pencils, timers, or water bottles that students already have.
What should I do before I go?
Confirm the supervised school area and review the route and boundaries with the class. Check both thermometers, print maps and data sheets, and make sure every student has a sun hat and reusable water bottle. Set the observation schedule before leaving the classroom.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.