Cloud Types
Cloud Types
Objectives
In this unit, students will learn about cloud characteristics and how clouds can be helpful to humans. Students will:
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identify the four basic cloud types.
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differentiate between cloud types and associated weather conditions.
Essential Questions
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What is the evidence that the Earth’s system changes?
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What predictable patterns of change can be observed on and from Earth?
Vocabulary
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Cumulonimbus: Tall, large, and dense clouds associated with heavy rain or hail.
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Cumulus: Puffy clouds.
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Stratus: Layered, horizontal clouds with a flat base.
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Cirrus: Thin, wispy, curly-shaped clouds.
Duration
45 minutes/2 class periods
Prerequisite Skills
Materials
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Play in the Clouds: A Tomas the Tortoise Adventure by Mike Miller. Stephens Press, 2003.
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cloud pictures (S-4-1-1_Cloud Pictures.doc)
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copies of Cloud Worksheet (S-4-1-1_Cloud Worksheet.pdf)
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copies of Weather and Living Things worksheet (S-4-1-1_Weather and Living Things and KEY.doc)
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copies of Cloud Table (S-4-1-1_Cloud Table.doc)
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one bag of cotton balls
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glue sticks
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construction paper
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five to seven laptops
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Internet access
Related Unit and Lesson Plans
Related Materials & Resources
The possible inclusion of commercial websites below is not an implied endorsement of their products, which are not free, and are not required for this lesson plan.
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Cloud Types and general weather information:
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Cloud Worksheet at: http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/astronomy/activities/label/cloudsimple/
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Play in the Clouds: A Tomas the Tortoise Adventure by Mike Miller. Stephens Press, 2003.