Scientists have studied the physical properties of clouds and have developed instruments onboard satellites to characterize the types of clouds they see below. Some satellites have instruments that allow them to measure rainfall as well. For this lesson, students will hypothesize what types of clouds they believe will create the most precipitation (rainfall) over Nashville, TN. Students use the Live ... Full description.

In this lesson, students explore the use of storm-tracking technologies, research how natural disasters are predicted, and assess the importance of these technologies. A case study of a New England snow storm and its impacts is presented for discussion, along with suggestions for retrieving information about forecasts as well as links to weather prediction and warning sites. Full description.

These lessons help students develop a better understanding of the importance of well-managed water use while exploring the concepts of a watershed, land use, aquifers, and water engineering. The material focuses on the historical water use decision affecting the Owens River Valley in California. Materials lists, procedures, assessment recommendations, and extension ideas are provided. Links to additional ... Full description.

This lesson is designed to teach younger students about why the Moon appears different during various times of the month. Students will acquire knowledge of how the phases of the moon occur in planet and satellite rotation, and demonstrate their understanding by writing an explanation of what they did and how and why it happens. Full description.

This Classroom Connectors lesson plan discusses the continuous movement of water from Earth to air and back to Earth. Students list areas of the Earth where water circulates, explain evaporation and condensation, list the steps of the water cycle and explain what happens in each step. The site provides goals, objectives, an outline, time required, materials, activities, and closure ideas for the lesson. ... Full description.

This Classroom Connectors lesson plan discusses the steps of the water cycle, factors which affect runoff, underground water, and stalactities and stalagmites. The site provides goals, objectives, an outline, time required, materials, activities, and closure ideas for the lesson. The Classroom Connectors address content with an activity approach while incorporating themes necessary to raise the activity ... Full description.

In this lesson, students explore how groundwater contamination can spread through aquifers by participating in a groundwater plume simulation. They will learn how to determine the source of groundwater contamination, explore the possible contamination of Nevada groundwater by a major nuclear test site, and write a persuasive essay from the point of view of a Nevada resident living close to a groundwater ... Full description.

This lesson gives high school students a clear understanding of why the seasons occur and reinforces the ability to articulate this concept to others. Students review the basics of the seasons and design their own monuments to keep track of and commemorate the seasons. In the process, students will review their understanding of the science behind the seasons, learn some theories about Stonehenge, ... Full description.

This lesson plan teaches students about the problems in the Aral Sea region and how the water loss of the sea is affecting specific groups of people, such as women, farmers and fishermen. They will work in groups to prepare statements that these people might make and will present their statements to a mock United Nations panel. Full description.

This lesson uses a discrepant event to pique curiosity and provide an excellent metaphor for a problem in science that can be addressed in a scientific way. Water is poured into a magic box, and out comes a much larger volume of water (or other liquid). Students will learn that science is uncertain because scientists can make more than one workable model to explain their observations. Full description.