Science Lesson: Heat, Climate & Building Design
Created by Teacher(s): Yen-Yen Chiu|Published on: August 16, 2026
Grades: 6, 7, 8
Type: Lesson Plan
Subjects: Science
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Created by: SubjectToClimate teachers
Location: Earth, North America > United States
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 →
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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 →
Synopsis
In this lesson, students explore how rising temperatures affect communities and buildings by analyzing climate data, thermal images, and classroom materials. Students build an observational foundation for learning formal heat-transfer concepts in Lesson 2.
Inquire: Students explore how people around the world use building design and materials to stay comfortable in different climates.
Investigate: Students analyze temperature, urban heat, and thermal image data to identify patterns in heat distribution and how heat affects communities and buildings.
Inspire: Students investigate building materials and create a thermal map of their classroom to predict how heat moves and to identify opportunities to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.
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Teacher Writer
Yen-Yen Chiu
Director of Education
Yen-Yen Chiu holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of San Diego. She taught public school for 22 years, from 2001 to 2023, specializing in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Music for grades 6–12, including Advanced Placement courses. Yen-Yen is credentialed in English, Mathematics, and Introductory Music, and has extensive experience designing interdisciplinary curricula that foster student choice, meaningful assessment, and authentic learning experiences.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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