Teaching article
A paper wind indicator shows a limited relationship
Describe the indicator's movement without treating it as a calibrated weather instrument.
A secured strip can respond to gentle airflow in an indoor demonstration. Label it as a qualitative model so its direction of movement is not mistaken for a calibrated measurement of outdoor wind speed.
Label the indicator as a qualitative classroom model. Its movement does not provide a calibrated measure of wind speed.
What does the strip's movement show?
The strip points away from the incoming airflow in this setup.
Mark the reference directions. Observe movement. Record a qualified description.
What does the model actually show? Use a gentle indoor fan demonstration.
Keep observations indoors during unsafe weather.
Resources
- Cloud observation – Weather Watchers Major Activity — Use the observation format for dated sky descriptions from a suitable viewpoint.
Further reading
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