Some resources from federal government sites are currently unavailable; when possible, we’ve provided alternative non-government links to ensure continued data access.
In this lesson, students learn about Earth's many climate zones by interpreting data in graphs and identifying climate zones described in postcards.
Students will learn about the difference between weather and climate, the conditions of five different climate zones, and why variations in climate exist.
This lesson allows students to work both individually and in groups or pairs.
The lesson plan includes introductory discussion questions on weather and climate, directions, background information, and optional additional exercises.
Additional Prerequisites
Students should understand averages and how to read graphs.
The map of climate zones should either be printed in color or projected for the class to see.
This lesson is expected to take 2-3 hours of class time to complete.
Differentiation
This lesson can also be used in math classes during lessons about creating and reading graphs.
Have students consider the impact of a changing climate on different climate zones and the plants, animals, and people living in them.
The lesson briefly introduces biomes, which can be expanded upon in science classes.
This interactive textbook lesson can be used to learn more about climate zones and biomes to supplement this lesson.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Related Teaching Resources
All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.
