Grade 7- Weather Station

A Weather Station is a place where observation, measuring and recording of weather elements is done

Factors to Be Taken into Account When Sitting a Weather Station

1. Open space- An open place where there is little obstruction of weather elements.

2. Accessible place- Accessible place so that recording can be done easily.

3. Gently sloping land- A fairly level or gently sloping ground (5◦) so that it’s easy to position weather instruments.

4. Security- The place should have security.

5. The place should provide a wide view of the surrounding landscape and the sky.

6. The site should be free from flooding.

7. Constructing selected instruments for measuring elements of weather

Instruments for Measuring Elements of Weather

1. Thermometer- measures temperature

2. Hygrometer- measures humidity

3. Rain gauge-measures rainfall

4. Barometer-measures air pressure

5. Sunshine recorder-measures sunshine duration and intensity

6. Wind vane –measures wind direction

7. Anemometer-measures wind speed

8. Windsock-measures direction of the wind.

Constructing a Windvane

Materials needed

1. A paper cup

2. Clay and plasticine

3. A pin

4. Drinking straw

5. Marker pen

6. A white circular cardboard

7. Square and triangular paper cutting.

8. A pencil with a rubber head’

Constructing a Rain Gauge

Materials Needed

1. A 2-litre plastic bottle

2. Ruler

3. A ballpoint pen

4. Masking tape

5. A scalpel or pair of scissors

Constructing a Windsock

Materials needed

1. Cylindrical bag

2. String

3. A scalpel

4. Water paints

5. An empty plastic fat/magarine tin

6. Masking tape or cellotape

7. A pole with a pointed end

8. Painting brushes or chewed sticks

Significance of weather to human

1. Helps us to be aware of natural calamities related to weather before they occur so as to take precautionary measures.

2. Guiding tourists on when to visit national parks.

3. Helps farmers to plan their activities such as planting, harvesting, etc.

4. Ensures air and water transport is carried out safely.

5. Helps sporting people to plan their training and competition schedules.

6. Helps people to plan many other activities such as mining, electricity generation, holiday events, etc.

7. Helps fishing communities to plan their activities