Weather

S4E3. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to demonstrate the water cycle.

a. Plan and carry out investigations to observe the flow of energy in water as it changes states from solid (ice) to liquid (water) to gas (water vapor) and changes from gas to liquid to solid.

b. Develop models to illustrate multiple pathways water may take during the water cycle (evaporation, condensation, and precipitation). (Clarification statement: Students should understand that the water cycle does not follow a single pathway.)

S4E4. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to predict weather events and infer weather patterns using weather charts/maps and collected weather data.

a. Construct an explanation of how weather instruments (thermometer, rain gauge, barometer, wind vane, and anemometer) are used in gathering weather data and making forecasts.

b. Interpret data from weather maps, including fronts (warm, cold, and stationary), temperature, pressure, and precipitation to make an informed prediction about tomorrow’s weather.

c. Ask questions and use observations of cloud types (cirrus, stratus, and cumulus) and data of weather conditions to predict weather events.

d. Construct an explanation based on research to communicate the difference between weather and climate.