Middle School
Weather and Climate
Weather patterns, climate factors, air masses, ocean currents, and climate change evidence.
MS-ESS2-5, MS-ESS2-6, MS-ESS3-5
2 lessons
4 quiz questions
Lesson 1: Weather Patterns
Explain how air masses and water cycling affect weather.
Learning goals
- Describe air masses and fronts.
- Explain weather changes.
- Interpret weather data.
Air masses
Air masses have temperature and moisture characteristics based on where they form. Fronts occur where air masses meet and can cause changing weather.
Data and prediction
Meteorologists use data on temperature, pressure, humidity, wind, and clouds to identify patterns and forecast weather.
Lesson 2: Climate and Change
Compare climate factors and evidence for climate change.
Learning goals
- Identify factors that affect climate.
- Use data to describe climate trends.
- Explain human influences on climate.
Climate factors
Climate depends on latitude, elevation, ocean currents, nearby water, landforms, and atmospheric circulation.
Climate change evidence
Long-term data on temperature, ice, sea level, weather patterns, and ecosystems provide evidence of climate change.