Project Learn:  Cycles of the Earth and Atmosphere, 2001

Topics:  Atmosphere, Climate, Ozone, Temperature, Global Climate Change

Source:  University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, National Center for Atmospheric Research, National Science Foundation

Web Address: http://www.ucar.edu/learn/

Grade Levels:  MS and HS

Learning Strategies:  Background reading, interactive activities, model-building, problem-solving

Frameworks Connections:

Science and Technology/Engineeirng

• Earth and Space Science, Grades 6-8

  Heat Transfer in the Earth System

• Earth and Space Science, Grades 9-10

  1. Matter and Energy in the Earth System

  3. Earth Processes and Cycles

• Physical Sciences, Grades 6-8

  Forms of Energy

  Heat Energy Biology, Grades 9-10

• Biology, Grade 9-10

  6. Ecology

Cost:  All free downloads

Description: This site acts as a curriculum module for teachers and students to embark on an adventure through the atmosphere and ozone.  Upon entry to the module, a teacher can access the background information in the "module overview" which contains vocabulary, images, and text to assist in understanding the concepts presented.  The unit topics include:  introductions to the atmosphere, climate, and ozone; the greenhouse effect, and global climate change.  Within each section, there are timing grids, background reading for both student and teacher, and links to student guides, activities, and images for further comprehension.  Each of the activities contains learning goals, grade level, time allotment, materials, procedures, observations and questions, assessment ideas, and modifications for alternative learners, along with images of each activity setup.  The materials involved in completing the activities are accessible, and the supplied information provides excellent guidance for both student and teacher.