Description
Initially looking at the rain gauge, you may wonder what the benefit of this activity is to the curriculum. In fact, this is one of the most versatile products. Introduce the early learner to the rain gauge, as a standard means of collecting rain. This product extends through to the upper elementary, incorporating the elements of mathematics, science, language, and geography.
Suggested Activities with the Rain Gauge
- collecting rain water, and relate this to the water cycle
- rain water comes from the clouds, so this is the time to introduce seasons, and the cloud activities
- introduce mathematics by collating the amount of rain captured over a period of time, using data collection ideas, such as spread sheets
- simple experiments introduce the Child to science as they work with the rain gauge
- geography incorporates the biome folders, and be further extended with the biome mat, to have the discussion about the climate, and how it is changing
Features of the Rain Gauge
- made from sturdy plastic to withstand wear and tear
- the rain gauge either stands alone or a spike, attached to the base of the gauge, secures it in the ground
- while the gauge is collecting rain, do not use the cover
- the cover can be placed on the gauge, for the Child to carry it into the classroom
- be aware that the lid is secured by twisting it over the gauge
- the lids on brand new gauges can be very stiff to release, just remember to twist it
- rain water is funneled from the wide opening, down to the narrow base
- the graduated mm’s on the side of the transparent gauge, are adjusted to accommodate the difference in size
Size of the Rain Gauge
- volume of the gauge – 50ml / (1¾oz)
- height of the stand alone gauge – 15.5cm / (6″)
- height with the spike attached – 30cm / (11¾)
- diameter of the wide opening on the gauge – 7.5cm / (3″)
Related Products
- The water cycle is a great starting point for the three year old Child
- Cloud activity and the cloud viewer can be introduced when the Child starts the science curriculum
- The biome folders and biome mat introduce the Child to the climate.
Further Reading and Resources
-
Using rain to connect math, science, writing, and a dash of Montessori written by Afrocentric Montessori.com
- Our Montessori weather station written by How We Montessori.com
Naomi308 (verified owner) –
Great for the children to see how rain is measured. Opens up lots of discussion.