Which balance is best for your classroom?

Here’s an idea…
When weighing your decision on which balance is best for your classroom, knowing the goal of the lesson will provide your answer.  What capacity and readability will fit your students’ needs?  Capacity is the maximum mass a balance can measure. Readability is the smallest difference in mass that will be displayed on the balance.  If students are comparing objects, a two-pan balance is the best option.  But if precise measurement is the focus of your lesson, then an electronic balance will provide the most accurate reading.