Celsius or Fahrenheit. What's the Difference?
Recommended for grades K–5.
Introduction
In the United States, people usually measure temperature using the Fahrenheit scale. If it is a cold day, the temperature on the Fahrenheit scale might be about 35°F. However, in science and in most other parts of the world, people use a different temperature scale, called the Celsius scale. If you told a person who was used to the Celsius scale that it was 35°C outside, they would think that it was really hot!
Objectives
In this activity, you will
- Take the temperature of a variety of items using two different temperature scales.
- Compare the Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
See all standards correlations for Let's Go! Investigating Temperature »
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.