Weather+Curriculum+and+standards

State Core Curriculum Framework 6.3 - Variations in the amount of the sun’s energy hitting the Earth’s surface affect daily and seasonal weather patterns. Expected Performances (Outcomes) CMT Correlations **C 1.** Describe the effect of heating on the movement of molecules in solids, liquids and gases. **C 2.** Explain how local weather conditions are related to the temperature, pressure and water content of the atmosphere and the proximity to a large body of water. **C 3.** Explain how the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface causes winds. Grade Level Expectations (Performance Standards)
 * 1) Compare the composition and structure of the Earth’s atmospheric layers.
 * 2) Demonstrate how changes in temperature, pressure, moisture and density of air affect weather patterns (e.g., air masses and air pressure.)
 * 3) Describe in writing how solar energy drives Earth’s weather systems.
 * 4) Investigate and report on how the introduction of heat affects the motion of particles and the distance between them.
 * 5) Illustrate the transfer of energy as matter changes phase.
 * 6) Design, conduct and report in writing an investigation that reveals different substances absorb and release heat at different rates.
 * 7) Research and give examples of heat transfer and local weather differences in Connecticut.
 * 8) Investigate and explain the movement of local winds, including “sea breezes” and “land breezes,” based on the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface and a change in air pressure.
 * 9) Examine and explain that global winds are caused by uneven heating of the Earth’s surface and the rotation of the Earth.
 * 10) Design a weather forecast based on collected weather data.