Weather Patterns

In this lesson, students observe and record local weather data over several months to analyze weather patterns in their geographic area. They explore the concept that weather in one area usually follows a yearly pattern and that this pattern can be observed and recorded. Students review their understanding of different types of weather on Earth and discuss the importance of weather forecasting before they begin recording and analyzing local weather conditions over a substantial period of time. They will carry this understanding forward as they engage with phenomena hands-on as scientists in future lessons.

• We can make predictions about the weather because of certain observable patterns.
• Scientists study weather conditions over time to look for patterns that can be used to predict future weather events.
• Weather forecasting is helpful to people so that they make plans according to the predicted upcoming weather

• Why is it important to watch the weather?
• Why is it important to record many days of weather conditions before we can identify patterns?
• How does weather forecasting help people?

Misconception: The seasons cause weather to change.

Fact: Seasons have specific weather patterns associated with them, but they aren’t the cause of the weather.  

Misconception: Snow and ice make it cold.

Fact: Snow and ice form when temperatures are low enough. In other words, cold weather causes snow and ice to form, not the other way around.

Cattern : something that happens in a regular and repeated way

This mini-lesson is a hands-on exploration of weather patterns over a period of time in students’ geographical area. They explore terminology associated with observing weather and practice recording the weather on a daily basis. Over time, they extrapolate patterns from day to day and season to season data to draw conclusions about weather patterns in their area. This practice gives students a chance to act as real scientists who gather data and analyze patterns to make an evidence-based claim.