To investigate the different rates of heating and cooling of certain materials on earth in order to understand the heating dynamics that take place in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Students observe the surface temperatures of a variety of surface types found in a suburban environment.

Students track weather over time and create a bar chart to track their data. 

Students will analyze and interpret graphs to compare the flow of (shortwave) energy from the Sun toward China over the course of a year on cloudy versus clear days. Students will draw a conclusion and support it with evidence.

Students interpret a graph of surface temperatures taken from city districts and other types of communities.

This activity will help students better understand and practice estimating percent cloud cover.