Weather

Description: In 6th grade we study how the Sun's energy affects our weather. We use various resources but especially our own Weather Bug Station which was generously provided by our Willington PTA.

Curriculum and State Standards

Weather Lessons


 * Compare the characteristics of the various layers in the atmosphere. Create models of the atmosphere. Investigate temperature differences in the various layers.


 * Use Radiation, Conduction, Convection Rap to learn about how heat is transmitted. Do experiments to observe how heat moves, is absorbed


 * Measure the kinetic energy found in a solid or liquid so that you can explain how thermal

energy is transferred by experimenting with heating and cooling substances

Compare and measure the differences in the Sun’s angle of light so that you can describe how

the difference in Sun’s angle would cause a difference in the amount of heat absorbed.

Measure and identify how heat energy moves from one material to another so

that you can explain the difference between radiation and conduction.


 * Measure how heat moves through solids and liquids so that you can observe

heat transfer by conduction.


 * Construct a barometer to measure air pressure. Learn how to read barometers. Identify what change in pressure means to change in weather systems.


 * Investigate Local and global winds and be able to describe their effect on the weather. Create a weather vane to determine wind direction and its naming. Create/use and anemometer to determine wind speed.


 * Investigate and name different types of clouds. Describe how they predict the weather.

Use weather maps (surface, radar, temperature, dew point) to investigate how weather changes. Use maps, pressure, temperature and front information to create a weather forecast.