Get Ready for Catching Sunshine Day!

1. Decide where you will hold Catching Sunshine Day.

   • Students will need a horizontal surface in direct sunshine to place the collector during data collection. They'll also need a shady location, or one not in direct sunshine, to measure the air temperature inside the collector before catching sunshine. If no shade is available, students can use an umbrella to shade their collectors.

2. Decide on a time of day.

   • Students should collect data as close to noon as possible when the sun's rays are most intense. Yet, anytime between 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. will work fine.

3. Find a few days that will work as data collection days and mark them on your calendar.

   • Students will need to collect data on a day that is as cloud free as possible. You might check the long-term weather forecast. As the time gets closer, you and your students can decide on the best day.

4. Get permission from the administration

5. Incorporate the day into the school's math or science afternoon/night.

6. Invite parents and school personnel.

7. Have a camera and film ready to take pictures.

[ Return to Step 3 ]