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Provided by: Michigan Sea Grant |Published on: November 14, 2024
Lesson Plans
678
Synopsis
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.
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.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
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Resource Type and Format
Related Teaching Resources
All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.
