Thermodynamics For Tots To Teens

This paper describes ten different ways to use a temperature sensor to investigate thermodynamics with younger students. Physical concepts such as temperature scales, heat transfer, phase changes in water, Newton’s Law of Cooling, and calorimetry can be explored through typical playtime activities – touching (observation), pouring (manipulation), and sorting (classification). Activities such as mixing cups of hot and cold water allow children to continue experimenting with their first temperature “sensors” (their fingers), while formalizing the process of scientific inquiry with a simple, handheld measurement tool. Exposing students to proper thermodynamics principles and terminology at an early age prevents common misconceptions that surface when students reach college. Through the ten activities described in this paper, teachers can begin to build on a toddler’s intuitive thermodynamic notions to help assure success in later academic endeavors.