Thermometers and data loggers
I can measure and record temperature in different ways.
Thermometers and data loggers
I can measure and record temperature in different ways.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Temperature is a measure of how hot something is.
- A thermometer is an instrument that measures temperature.
- In the UK, degrees Celsius is the unit of measurement for temperature, which is often shortened to °C.
- Data loggers can be used to monitor and record changes in light, sound and temperature.
Keywords
Temperature - Temperature is a measure of how hot something is.
Heat - If you feel heat from something, you feel warmth coming from it.
Thermometer - A thermometer is a device for measuring temperature.
Degrees Celsius - Temperature is measured in degrees Celsius (°C).
Data logger - A data logger is an electronic device which uses sensors to monitor and record changes in the environment over time.
Common misconception
Children may think that thermometers are heat sources. They may also think that they must touch an object to measure a temperature.
Teaching slides explain how to use a thermometer and show that you can use them to measure ambient temperature.
To help you plan your year 4 science lesson on: Thermometers and data loggers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 4 science lesson on: Thermometers and data loggers, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 science lessons from the Introduction to states of matter and changing states unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Thermometers, data loggers with temperature sensors, beakers of warm and cold water.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
