What it does
This question type provides:- Interactive thermometer displays that learners can manipulate or read
- Support for both Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales
- Multiple answer format options (reading, setting, comparing temperatures)
- Automatic grading with appropriate tolerance for measurement precision
When to use it
Use thermometer questions to assess:- Temperature reading skills from analog thermometers
- Number line understanding using temperature contexts
- Positive and negative number comprehension
- Measurement precision and estimation abilities
- Scale comparison between different measurement systems
How to add it
- In the resource editor, click Add Block
- Navigate to Question Blocks
- Select Thermometer Question
- Configure your thermometer settings and correct answer
Question format options
Temperature reading
- Display a thermometer with a set temperature
- Ask learners to identify the temperature reading
- Include questions about intermediate markings
Temperature setting
- Provide a target temperature in text
- Ask learners to adjust the thermometer to show that temperature
- Allow for drag-and-drop or click-to-set interactions
Temperature comparison
- Show multiple thermometers at different settings
- Ask learners to identify highest, lowest, or differences
- Include ordering from coldest to warmest
Configuration options
Thermometer settings
- Scale type: Celsius, Fahrenheit, or both for conversion questions
- Temperature range: Set appropriate minimum and maximum values
- Interval markings: Choose major and minor tick mark spacing
- Visual style: Traditional mercury or digital display options
Answer settings
- Correct temperature: Specify the exact correct reading
- Tolerance range: Allow for reasonable reading precision (±1°, ±0.5°)
- Answer format: Require degree symbol and scale notation
Difficulty adjustments
- Grid spacing: Larger intervals for easier reading, smaller for precision practice
- Number complexity: Whole numbers, decimals, or negative temperatures
- Context clues: Include or hide temperature descriptions (hot, cold, freezing)
Answer format examples
Temperature reading format
Temperature setting format
Comparison format
Grading and feedback
Automatic scoring
- Precise temperature matching within specified tolerance
- Recognition of equivalent formats (with or without degree symbol)
- Immediate visual feedback with correct answer highlighting
Tolerance settings
- Exact reading: No margin for error on simple scales
- Reasonable precision: ±1° tolerance for complex scales
- Estimation practice: Wider tolerance ranges for approximation skills
Real-world contexts
Weather applications
- Daily temperature readings
- Seasonal temperature changes
- Weather forecast interpretation
Scientific contexts
- Laboratory temperature measurements
- Boiling and freezing point identification
- Body temperature and health applications
Practical applications
- Cooking temperature requirements
- Home heating and cooling settings
- Outdoor activity planning
Teaching strategies
Scaffolding support
- Start with large, clear interval markings
- Begin with positive temperatures only
- Use familiar temperature ranges for your geographic region
Progressive difficulty
- Whole number readings → decimal precision → negative temperatures
- Single thermometer → multiple comparisons → temperature calculations
- Celsius only → Fahrenheit only → conversion between scales
Assessment applications
Formative assessment
- Daily temperature reading practice
- Understanding of scale intervals and markings
- Estimation and approximation skills
Summative evaluation
- Measurement unit assessments
- Scientific method and data collection skills
- Real-world problem-solving applications
Accessibility considerations
Visual support
- High contrast thermometer displays
- Adjustable text size for temperature markings
- Clear mercury or indicator line visibility
Interaction methods
- Click-and-drag temperature setting
- Keyboard input for temperature values
- Voice description support for readings
Common question variations
Elementary level
- Simple temperature reading with large intervals
- Basic hot/cold comparisons
- Introduction to thermometer markings
Intermediate level
- Precise temperature reading with smaller intervals
- Negative temperature introduction
- Temperature difference calculations
Advanced applications
- Temperature scale conversions
- Scientific precision requirements
- Multi-step temperature problems
Best practices
Age-appropriate ranges
- Use temperature ranges familiar to learners
- Start with positive numbers for younger students
- Include relevant real-world examples
Clear visual design
- Ensure thermometer markings are easily readable
- Use consistent color coding (red for warm, blue for cold)
- Provide clear indication of current temperature setting
Meaningful contexts
- Connect to weather, cooking, health, or science topics
- Use temperatures learners encounter in daily life
- Explain the practical importance of accurate temperature reading