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Instructions
Show the pictures of the Tower of Winds and Triton while explaining the earliest known use of a weather vane in 48 B.C. when the "life-size" Greek statue of the god Triton was placed on the Tower of Winds in Athens, Greece. The tower has eight sides, and each side is adorned with a sculpture depicting the Greek god associated a wind direction. In Greek mythology, Triton had the power to calm the wind and the waves, so he is depicted at the topmost spot on the tower.
Explain that a change in wind direction usually indicates a change in the weather, according to meteorologist Jeff Haby of The Ultimate Weather Education Website. Ancient observers noted that certain patterns in the wind's direction often meant certain weather events, which they attributed to the gods. Meteorologists today know that when winds change direction in a cyclonic fashion, a low-pressure front is moving in. Winds that blow from the south bring warmer air, while winds from the north bring colder air. An abrupt change in wind direction often means thunderstorm activity.
Display pictures of vintage weather vanes and describe their construction. Weather vane designs could be utilitarian, or decorative and ornate. Farmers relied on the information provided by their weather vanes to know when to plant or harvest their crops, but, without more advanced tools at their disposal, their forecasts were not always accurate.
Show actual examples, or pictures, of modern-day weather vanes. Many people today enjoy the decorative aspect of weather vanes and place them on the roofs of their houses or barns. Weather vanes remind us of our roots in a simpler time, and are often sought after as art and collectibles.