1. Shaw Survey
Shaw STEM Lab

2. Overview Our environment is important to all of us.
In this activity you will investigate our school as an environment.
Scientists study large areas by looking at samples.
In this experiment, you will gather data from around the school.

3. Objectives In this experiment, you will
Measure ground and air temperatures at various locations around our school
Determine if there are temperature differences between the ground and air above it
Organize your results

4. Materials
LabQuest2
Temperature Probe
Light Sensor
Ruler

5. LabQuest2 Note: The LabQuest2 is a very expensive piece of equipment
You are responsible for it, pleas make sure to take care of it
Be sure to use the stylus to touch or select things on the screen

6. Selecting Where to Collect Data
Select at least four different areas to collect data from
All four places need to be either indoor or outdoor – not both
Make sure your locations are approved before continuing

7. How to and What Data to Collect
Description of Location
Temperature (at surface in °C)
Temperature (at 5 cm in °C)
Temperature difference (°C)
Light Intensity (at 5 cm)

8. How to and What Data to Collect
Connect the Temperature Probe and Light Sensor
Ensure the Light Sensor is set to the 0-150,000 lux position

9. How to and What Data to Collect: Part 1
In your first location
Place the tip of the Temperature Probe on the ground
Note: if there is direct sunlight on the tip during data collection, the readings will be too high. To prevent this, use your hand to shade the tip of the probe.
Have one person cover the tip of the Light Sensor with their hand so that the ground level light intensity values will be zero.
Wait approximately one minute for the temperature reading to stabilize, then press the START/STOP button on the LabQuest2. This will collect one set of temperature and light data.

10. How to and What Data to Collect: Part 1
Repeat the previous slide and steps in your other locations

11. How to and What Data to Collect: Part 2
Return to your first location.
Fasten the Light Sensor to a ruler using two rubber bands.
Slide the Temperature Probe under the rubber bands on the other side of the ruler as shown in the image.
Both probe tips should be at the 5 cm mark on the ruler.

12. How to and What Data to Collect: Part 2
Measure the temperature and light intensity 5 cm above the surface by repeating the previous slide at your other locations.
Note: If it is a sunny day, hold the ruler so that the Temperature Probe is on the shady side.

13. Questions
Which location had the greatest difference between the two temperatures?
Which location had the smallest difference between the two temperatures?
Explain why you think this could be.

14. Hot to and What Data to Collect: Part 3
If there is time, ask for different types of sensors
Repeat the experiment except in the opposite location
If you did it inside, do it outside
If you did it outside, do it inside