Provided by: National Science Teaching Association |Published on: May 8, 2026
Lesson Plans
678
Synopsis
In this lesson, students will look at two cities to determine why one experiences dust storms and the other does not.
Students will analyze maps to build a model that can predict which cities will experience dust storms, watch a 10-minute video about dust storms, and consider how dust storms are becoming more frequent.
Teachers can access the PDF of the community activity and discussion guide here.
Prerequisites:
Use this lesson after students have had a unit or lesson on extreme weather and natural hazards. Consider using this lesson plan.
Review map reading, including latitude, longitude, and map keys.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
Health:
Have students consider the health impacts of dust storms, discussed from 7:00-7:46 in the video, and come up with a community action plan to inform communities about the risks and necessary precautions.
Career Exploration:
Play the clip where the scientist talks about his entry point into a science career (4:46-5:20). Have students consider if they may have a similar entry point to science as a career.
Differentiation:
Provide students with pre-labeled maps and partially completed data tables.
Scientist Notes
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