Lesson II: Measuring the Earth's Constant Temperature
Objective
Because Earthship foundations are dug below the frost line, they are able to maintain a constant temperature. This activity will demonstrate how the temperature of the earth maintains a constant temperature below the frost line.
Materials
Soil — core drill
Graphing paper
Thermometer
Activity
As the students study the Earthship, they will learn that the temperature of the earth below the frost line maintains a constant temperature of approximately 55 to 60 degrees F. Using a soil - core drill, we will create a hole that drops approximately four feet into the earth. This will be placed in a location that sees no foot traffic. The opening will be small enough not to trip any passersby.
Using thermometers, the students will measure the temperature at the bottom of the core and the ambient air temperature once a month during the entire school year. This information will be placed on a graph.
Assessment
Graphs will be spot checked each month. At the end of the school year, a colored graph will be turned in for a final grade. It should have an accurate entry for each month.
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