Benchmark 1B
The Nature of Science: Scientific Inquiry
Grades K-2, page 10

Tools such as thermometers, magnifiers, rulers, or balances often give more information about things than can be obtained by just observing things without their help.
 

NSES Content Standard A 
Science as Inquiry: Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry 
Grades K-4, page 122 
Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses. In early years, students develop simple skills, such as how to observe, measure, cut, connect, switch, turn on and off, pour, hold, tie, and hook. Beginning with simple instruments, students can use rulers to measure the length, height, and depth of objects and materials; thermometers to measure temperature; watches to measure time; beam balances and spring scales to measure weight and force; magnifiers to observe objects and organisms; and microscopes to observe the finer details of plants, animals, rocks, and other materials. Children also develop skills in the use of computers and calculators for conducting investigations. 

NSES Content Standard A 
Science as Inquiry: Understanding about scientific inquiry 
Grades K-4, page 123 
Simple instruments, such as magnifiers, thermometers, and rulers, provide more information than scientists obtain using only their senses.