Context

Temperature is a physical quantity that is present in our daily lives, in practically everything we do. It affects the weather, our bodies, how we cook, how we preserve food, and even how we dress. Therefore, knowing about temperature measurement units is essential to understand the world around us and to solve many practical problems.

In our daily lives, we mainly use two scales to measure temperature: Celsius and Fahrenheit. The Celsius scale is the most widely used worldwide and was defined in such a way that 0°C corresponds to the freezing point of water, and 100°C corresponds to the boiling point of water. The Fahrenheit scale, widely used in the United States, was defined so that 32°F corresponds to the freezing point of water, and 212°F corresponds to the boiling point of water.

Introduction

Temperature measurement is carried out through an instrument called a thermometer, which can be of various types. Mercury thermometers are quite common and work due to the expansion and contraction of mercury with temperature variation. Digital thermometers, on the other hand, use electronic sensors to measure temperature.

To better understand how temperature is measured, it is important to understand the concept of a 'scale.' A temperature scale is an ordered sequence of points that represent different temperatures. Each point is called a 'degree' and has a numerical value. For example, on the Celsius scale, we have the freezing point of water at 0°C and the boiling point at 100°C.

Studying temperature measurement units is important not only to understand the weather and our bodies but also to solve everyday problems. For example, if we want to bake a cake, we need to know the oven temperature. If we are planning a trip to a country where temperature is measured in Fahrenheit, we need to know how to convert temperatures. Therefore, it is essential that we all learn about temperature measurement units.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: 'Adventure of Temperatures'

Project Objective:

This project aims to explore and understand temperature measurement units (Celsius and Fahrenheit) and the conversion between them. Additionally, it aims to develop socio-emotional skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving.

Detailed Project Description:

Students, divided into groups, will embark on an 'Adventure of Temperatures,' where they will have to carry out various practical tasks involving temperature measurement and conversion. They will have to create a homemade thermometer, measure the temperature of various objects and environments, and convert temperatures between Celsius and Fahrenheit scales. In the end, each group will present their findings and learnings.

Required Materials:

• Transparent glass jar
• Water, alcohol, or oil
• Food coloring (optional)
• Straw
• Paper and pencil for notes
• Internet access for research (monitored by parents or guardians)

Step-by-Step for Activity Execution:

1. Group Formation: Divide the class into groups of 3 to 5 students. Each group will be a team in the 'Adventure of Temperatures.'

2. Creation of Homemade Thermometer: Each team must create a homemade thermometer. To do this, fill a transparent glass jar with water, alcohol, or oil. Add a few drops of food coloring (optional, just to facilitate visualization). Insert a straw into the jar. The straw will function as the thermometer's 'scale.' Mark points on the straw, representing different temperatures (for example, 0°C, 10°C, 20°C, etc.).

3. Temperature Measurement: With the homemade thermometer ready, each team must measure the temperature of different objects and environments. Record the temperatures in degrees Celsius.

4. Temperature Conversion: Next, students must convert the temperatures obtained to the Fahrenheit scale. Online research will be necessary to find the correct conversion formula.

5. Recording and Presentation: Throughout the process, students should make notes about their findings and learnings. At the end of the 'Adventure of Temperatures,' each team must prepare a presentation to share their discoveries with the class. The presentation can be done creatively, such as a play, a rap, a comic strip, among others.

Remember, each step should be carried out together, encouraging the participation of all group members. Communication and respect among team members are essential for the success of the 'Adventure of Temperatures.'

Delivery Format: Each group must deliver the homemade thermometer and the notes taken during the activity. Additionally, they must make the presentation to the class, sharing their discoveries and learnings.