Skip to main contentThe Thermometer block creates a visual thermometer display for teaching temperature concepts and measurement skills.
What it does
The thermometer block provides:
- A realistic thermometer visual with measurement markings
- Customizable temperature ranges and scales
- Interactive temperature setting capabilities
- Support for both Celsius and Fahrenheit scales
When to use it
Use thermometers when teaching:
- Temperature measurement and reading thermometers
- Positive and negative numbers in real-world contexts
- Scale and intervals on measurement tools
- Comparison and ordering of temperature values
- Weather and science concepts
How to add it
- In the resource editor, click Add Block
- Navigate to Learning Blocks
- Select Thermometer
- Set your temperature range and scale
Configuration options
Temperature settings
- Scale type: Choose between Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F)
- Temperature range: Set minimum and maximum temperatures to display
- Interval markings: Choose spacing between measurement lines
- Current temperature: Set the displayed temperature reading
Visual design
- Thermometer style: Traditional mercury or modern digital display
- Color coding: Red for hot, blue for cold, or custom colors
- Size and orientation: Vertical or horizontal display options
Teaching applications
Elementary level
- Reading simple temperatures
- Understanding hot and cold
- Recognizing temperature changes throughout the day
- Working with negative temperatures
- Understanding freezing and boiling points
- Comparing temperatures from different locations
Advanced concepts
- Temperature conversions between scales
- Scientific applications and precise measurements
- Weather pattern analysis
Real-world connections
Daily life
- Weather forecasting and preparation
- Cooking and food safety temperatures
- Body temperature and health
Science applications
- Laboratory experiments and data collection
- Climate and environmental studies
- Physics concepts involving heat and energy
Accessibility features
The thermometer block includes:
- Clear visual markings with high contrast options
- Alternative text descriptions for screen readers
- Large text options for temperature readings
Best practices
Age-appropriate ranges
- Use familiar temperature ranges for your learners’ climate
- Start with positive numbers only for younger children
- Introduce negative temperatures gradually
Clear marking intervals
- Choose interval spacing that matches learning objectives
- Use round numbers (5s, 10s) for easier reading
- Highlight key temperatures (freezing point, body temperature)
Interactive features
Learning activities
- Set target temperatures for learners to identify
- Compare multiple thermometer readings
- Track temperature changes over time
Assessment opportunities
- Reading accuracy exercises
- Temperature estimation skills
- Scale conversion practice
Common misconceptions
Help learners understand:
- Temperature is a measurement, not a feeling
- Negative temperatures exist and are measurable
- Different scales measure the same physical property
- Thermometers show actual temperature, not just “hot” or “cold”
Extensions and variations
Cross-curricular connections
- Geography: Climate zones and weather patterns
- Science: States of matter and temperature changes
- Health: Body temperature and fever concepts
- History: Temperature records and climate change
The thermometer block provides an excellent tool for connecting abstract number concepts with concrete, real-world measurement experiences. 
