Microclimates
Lesson Plans
Grades6, 7, 8Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, Mathematics
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Michigan Sea Grant
What it is
- In this lesson, students will explore how the Great Lakes affect the weather and climate in Michigan, specifically related to growing fruit in the "fruit belt" region of Western Michigan.
- Students will analyze temperature data and generate and evaluate hypotheses for the impact of the lake on the climate in surrounding areas and the growing season.
Teaching tips
Positives
- Students will have many opportunities to practice data analysis in the activities.
- The maps in the resource give students an effective visual to help them understand the impact of the Great Lakes on climate.
Prerequisites
- The activities direct students to use data from the GLOS website, but this website may have has changed. However, the data and locations are provided in the Excel spreadsheet provided in the lessons.
Differentiation & Implementation
- To practice scientific writing, students can form their hypotheses in Heat Source and Sink as claim, evidence, and reasoning statements.
- Students can discuss how climate change may affect Michigan's microclimates and the fruit grown there.
- To make economic connections, students can discuss how a change in microclimates can impact Michigan's economy.
From the scientist review
Microclimates are well documented throughout the scientific literature. This resource is thorough and well-cited and is recommended for teaching.
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