My newest project is to meet the NGSS MS ESS2-6
Develop and
use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause
patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional
climates.
I also made a version specific for Utah SEEd „ Standard 6.3.3 Develop and use a model to show how unequal heating of the Earth’s
systems causes patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine
regional climates. Emphasize how warm water and air move from
the equator toward the poles.
First we start of talking about the atmosphere.
Next we start exploring the way the sunlight hits the curved Earth. We do a couple of activities with this and then we do a really cool activity. We compare the heating of Earth's main materials: Land and Water. We want to discover if the heat at the same rate and if they cool at the same rate.
I won't spoil the fun by telling you what we discover, but it was a great chance to use measurement and graphing to record out data.
Next we do the coolest thing of all! We review heat transfer and then discuss how heat transfer works in our atmosphere and hydrosphere to distribute heat.
We do a great experiment on convection currents, which I have recorded for you here.
There is so much more to this unit. It is well over 100 pages/slides.
If you teach middle school, please take a look. Remember, there is a version for NGSS and another version for Utah SEEd.
Utah SEEd 6.3.3 Uneven Heat of the Earth's Surfaces and How it Affects Regional Climate
