Education Technology


Sunrise, Sunset: Weather Match

Activity Overview

Students' determine the relationship between temperature and light intensity. They use a Temperature Sensor and a Light Intensity Sensor to collect temperature and light intensity data for a period of 24 hours. They understand the effect of atmospheric factors on weather.

Before the Activity

  • Connect the TI-73 to the CBL™ unit
  • Plug in Temperature Sensor in channel 1 and Light Sensor in channel 2 of the CBL 2
  • Download DataMate™ program
  • See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity
  • Print pages 177-184 from the attached PDF file for your class
  • During the Activity

    Distribute the pages to your class.

  • Complete the Hypothesis section on the Data Collection and Analysis page and predict temperature and light intensity data for a period of 24 hours


  • Follow the Activity procedures:
  • Place CBL 2 with the Light Sensor and Temperature Sensor in a suitable place outdoors where there is no dew or rain
  • Record temperature and light data every 30 minutes for 24 hours
  • Graph data and answer questions in data and analysis sheet
  • Explore the temperature and light intensity pattern that occurs
  • After the Activity

    Students' will fill in the Student Data Collection and Analysis Sheet.

    Review student results

  • As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
  • Re-teach concepts as necessary