Tag: measurement

October 9, 2012

October 8th, 2012

Dear Tablemakers,

A table is a powerful tool for solving problems. By putting our data into a table, we can find patterns. Sometimes, we’re lucky enough to find a rate. Speed is an example of a rate. To calculate speed, we need two measurements–distance and time. When we put these two measurements into a table, we see the relationship between the two.

Today, we’ll practice calculating speed and collecting other types of data. Remember, anytime you see a thing or a phenomenon, your job as a scientist is to ask, “How can I measure this?” and “How can I collect data about this?” If you approach the world with that mindset, the world will open itself up and reveal its most interesting secrets.

There are still a lot of the secrets the world has not revealed to us. We need smart, observant, persistent, and creative scientists to figure them out. I think some of you might be those scientists.

Sincerely,

Mr. Heimbuck
October 5, 2012

October 4th, 2012

Dear Measurers of Time and Space,

One of the most ingenious things humans came up with is the many ways we have to measure things. We use body measures, strides, kings’ appendages, the ticking of atoms, and countless other distances and times to be units for measure. However, when humans got together and agreed on some similar units of measure, science was forever revolutionized. That revolution in science continues and will keep going on.

Science is not only about observing the natural world but also about communicating those observations. To do that, we have to speak some kind of common language. For scientists, that language is one of measurements and data. To be a scientists, you have to know how to measure, know how to collect data, and know how to analyze, interpret, and communicate that data.

Sincerely,

Mr. Heimbuck
September 12, 2012

September 11th, 2012

Dear Data Collectors,

Yesterday, an atmospheric scientist spoke to the other class about how scientists make reliable observations about weather, specifically precipitation. He showed us a few rain gauges and a hail pad and showed us how to make precise and accurate observations. He came because he needs our help. Because precipitation can vary so much from place to place, scientists need a whole bunch of observations to get a good picture of the weather. Our job is to make daily precipitation observations and record them.

Good observations are the foundation of science. As Harlow Shapley once said, “Theories crumble, but good observations never fade.” People once thought the sun moved around the earth. We now know better, but the observations the ancients made by looking up at the stars are still invaluable to us today. Our most powerful method of understanding the world is creating methods of gathering data, accurately collecting that data, and analyzing it fairly. That’s the method that creates our greatest theories about the world.

Sincerely,

Mr. Heimbuck

Tag: measurement

October 9, 2012

October 5, 2012

September 12, 2012