Measuring Precipitation Developed by the GPM Education and Public Outreach NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
ENGAGE What is precipitation? How do we measure precipitation?
The Freshwater Connection
Measuring Rain With a partner: 1.Look at the materials and tools available and plan your device to measure rain on the capture sheet. 2.Show the teacher your plan. 3.Make your device!
Test your device With a partner: 1.Pour water over your device for seconds. 2.Answer the “Explain” questions on the capture sheet. 3.Empty the device and pour water a second time. 4.Change any of your answers if needed.
Evaluate What did you find difficult about this task? Which design do you think would be the most effective for measuring precipitation? Why? What are some design factors that you think need to be consistent for the rain gauges? Why? What could you do to improve your rain gauge?
GPM The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Satellite will collect precipitation data from around the world. Knowing where and how much rain or snow falls globally is vital to understanding how weather and climate impact both our environment and Earth’s water and energy cycles. Precipitation patterns have effects on agriculture, fresh water availability, and responses to natural disasters.
Video- “For Good Measure”