Making Weather Predictions Based on Data
Making Weather Predictions Based on Data
Objectives
Around 1675, scientists began using barometers to predict weather domestically. At that time, scientists made a connection between local weather conditions and the air pressure. Today barometers are used to measure air pressure of the atmosphere at a particular location. To understand the concept students will:
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construct and use a barometer to understand atmospheric pressure.
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investigate air pressure.
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construct and use a barometer.
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investigate changes in barometric pressure over a period of 1–2 weeks.
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predict upcoming weather from barometric pressure data.
Essential Questions
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What are tools used by scientists to predict weather?
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What predictable patterns of change can be observed on and from earth?
Vocabulary
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Wind: Moving air, especially a natural and perceptible movement of air parallel to or along the ground.
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Precipitation: Any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the earth’s surface.
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Barometer: An instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure, used especially in weather forecasting.
Duration
60 minutes/1–2 class periods
Prerequisite Skills
Materials
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glass jar or small aluminum can (similar to a coffee jar or can)
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plastic wrap or large balloon
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rubber band
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scissors
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drinking straw
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card stock or cardboard strip
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glue
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tape
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ruler
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pen or pencil
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small piece of modeling clay
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shoebox-sized cardboard box
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Homemade Barometer Instructions (S-4-1-3_Homemade Barometer Instructions.doc)
Related Unit and Lesson Plans
Related Materials & Resources
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