Science Fair Projects
earth scienceeasy elementary 1 days

Make a Sundial: Tell Time with Shadows

This project involves making a simple sundial and using it to tell time based on the position of the sun's shadow. It's a fun way to learn about the sun and timekeeping!

Make a Sundial: Tell Time with Shadows

Hypothesis

If the sundial is placed in sunlight, then the shadow will indicate the time of day based on the sun's position.

Materials Needed

Cardboard or paper plate — 1Buy
Straw or stick — 1Buy
Marker — 1Buy
Compass — 1Buy
Ruler — 1Buy
Scissors — 1Buy

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Step-by-Step Procedure

  1. 1

    Cut the cardboard into a circular shape.

  2. 2

    Mark the center of the circle and insert the straw vertically.

  3. 3

    Use a compass to align the sundial with true north.

  4. 4

    Mark the hours on the cardboard using the shadow cast by the straw.

  5. 5

    Observe the sundial at different times of the day.

  6. 6

    Record the time indicated by the sundial.

  7. 7

    Compare the sundial time with a regular clock.

  8. 8

    Discuss how sundials work and their historical significance.

Expected Results

The sundial will show the correct time based on the position of the sun and the shadow cast by the straw, demonstrating the relationship between the sun and timekeeping.

Variables

Independent Variable

Position of the sundial

Dependent Variable

Time indicated by the sundial

Controlled Variables

Time of day, Weather conditions, Length of straw

Safety Notes

Be careful with scissors when cutting materials.

Presentation Tips

  • Create a visual display showing the sundial in action.

  • Explain the science behind sundials and how they were used in history.

  • Engage the audience with a live demonstration.

  • Provide handouts with fun facts about timekeeping.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a sundial work?

It works by casting a shadow based on the sun's position, which indicates the time.

What if it's cloudy?

Cloudy weather will make it difficult to read the sundial.

Can I use it at night?

No, sundials require sunlight to function.

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