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Construct a sundial in your immediate area or plan for your school grounds to see where a sundial could be placed.
I teach in the senior end of a mixed, rural primary school in County Meath. With my 6th class this year I plan to engage students in planning and constructing a sundial on school grounds. I plan to start by introducing the concept of time measurement in ancient civilizations, sparking curiosity about how people told time before clocks. I would then divide the class into small groups, each responsible for researching different aspects: the science behind sundials, types of sundials, and the role of geography (latitude and longitude) in their accuracy.
Next, we would explore our school grounds (remaining in the groups) to find the ideal location, discussing factors like sunlight exposure and orientation. Luckily we have a large outdoor area in our school, so we would have plenty of options to explore. Each group would present their findings, and together we’d select the best site. We’d then collaborate on design ideas, encouraging creativity in integrating the sundial into the school’s aesthetic.
During construction, students would take on roles according to their strengths—measuring, marking the hours, building the base, and decorating. Throughout the process, I’d guide discussions on the mathematics of angles and the earth’s rotation, making the project a hands-on learning experience. Once complete, we’d reflect on the project, allowing students to share what they learned and how their contributions made the project successful. This approach fosters teamwork, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of time and space.