Do it Yourself Weather Vane

Let's Try It

1. 

   Using the scissors, cut a 1″ (2.5 cm) slit in one end of a plastic straw.

2. 

   Trace a trapezoid (a triangle with the top cut off) on an index card and use the scissors to cut it out.

3. 

   Slide the smaller side of the trapezoid into the slit that you cut into one side of the straw and glue it in place.

4. 

   With a red marker, color the opposite end of the straw red.

5. 

   Insert a straight pin through the straw. The pin should be about 2″ (5 cm) from the trapezoid end of the straw.

6. 

   Straighten four paper clips out and, at one end, shape them into the letters N, S, E, and W. These signify the four cardinal directions. Wrap each paper clip around the pencil about 1-2″ (2.5-5 cm) below the eraser and tape them in place.

7. 

   Push the pin into the eraser end of the pencil. Make sure that the straw can spin freely on the pin.

    

8. 

   In a shallow flower pot or cup, hold the pencil so that it stands straight up. Fill the area around the pencil with dirt, rock salt, or another material similar to these items. You may need to ask a friend to help you with this step.

9. 

   Find a place with wind (or a fan if you don’t feel like going outside) and set up your weather vane. Use a compass to make sure that your directional wires are properly set.