Using a weather station develops scientific and mathematical skills. These include observation, measuring, recording and interpreting data. Observing and recording the weather is an important aspect of the geography curriculum. Home observations can readily be compared with TV weather forecasts and online resources. Even young children can make simple observations of temperature, rain fall, amount of cloud and the shapes of clouds. Older children can be asked to make more complex analysis, identify trends and make predictions. This practices analytic thinking. Recording results on a computer affords opportunities to learn to input data, use spreadsheets, graphs and charts and access online resources.
Weather measurements should usually be recorded at the same time every day for a period of at least a week. Comparisons can then be made between the different days' results. The data can be recorded in tables and bar graphs and integrated into a math lesson. Arranging and analyzing data can include practice in rounding numbers. Daily weather records over a longer period, or taken at separate periods throughout the year can teach about seasonal change. Further mathematical applications might be asking students to use subtraction to identify the difference in highest and lowest temperatures, or using addition and division to obtain average readings. Using books and online resources, children can make comparisons in world geography between the weather at their location and that in another country or region.
Pine cones placed in jars are the basis for a simple hygrometer, displaying changes in humidity. A barometer, rain gauge, snow gauge, wind vane, and an anemometer to measure wind speed can all be made using everyday household items. These include plastic straws, paper cups and empty coffee cans. This is an opportunity for hands-on learning and craft-related skills. Children gain enjoyment, self-esteem and a sense of achievement. The only components that must be purchased are a thermometer and a compass for checking wind direction against the weather vane.
Inexpensive wireless weather stations record temperature, humidity and air pressure. They will forecast weather for the proceeding 12 to 20 hours. Memory features allow recording lowest and highest temperatures for the location. Some will record conditions at remote locations for comparison. Using one of these takes away some of the practical skills of making and using a self-built weather station. However, it practices different skills, including the use of technology. In 2011 a simple wireless weather station could be obtained for as little as $25. This is equipment that will be used regularly over a long period and will justify the investment. More expensive electronic weather stations that interface with computers could be a purchase shared between a cluster of home schools.