SEEd - Grade 3
Lesson Plans

Strand 3.1: WEATHER AND CLIMATE PATTERNS

Weather is a minute-by-minute, day-by-day variation of the atmosphere's condition on a local scale. Scientists record patterns of weather across different times and areas so that they can make weather forecasts. Climate describes a range of an area's typical weather conditions and the extent to which those conditions vary over a long period of time. A variety of weatherrelated hazards result from natural processes. While humans cannot eliminate natural hazards, they can take steps to reduce their impact.

Standard 3.1.3

Design a solution that reduces the effects of a weather-related hazard. Define the problem, identify criteria and constraints, develop possible solutions, analyze data from testing solutions, and propose modifications for optimizing a solution. Examples could include barriers to prevent flooding or wind-resistant roofs. (ESS3.B, ETS1.A, ETS1.B, ETS1.C)

• 3.1.3 Lesson Plan - Natural Disasters
  Thanksgiving Point lesson plan about natural disasters
• Flooding, Oh My!
  This is a 21-day unit on the topic of floods. Students will plan and prepare for what might happen in the event of a flood in our area. We have had floods in the past that have affected the Walterville School, its campus, and the surrounding areas. Using this as a springboard, students will discuss the effects of flooding, do research and interview family members who have experienced flooding, and then discuss possible ways to prevent significant damage on the buildings and surrounding areas. They will then design a barrier that could protect an area from damage for a period of time. Students will need materials to conduct experiments. We have listed these in the lesson plan. We have also included a trip to the Leaburg Dam so that students can learn about dams and their uses. We plan on teaching this unit in the fall. This is a series of 14 lessons.
• Introduction to Weather
  An 11-lesson unit that covers SEEd standards 3.1.1, 3.1.2 and 3.1.3 (NSTA- click on "view this resource"). This unit is an in-depth look at weather and covers more than Utah standards require.
• Keeping Warm and Staying Cool
  Consistent housing is a continual issue for our community, evidence of this is readily observable in the neighborhoods surrounding our classrooms. Over the course of 15 classroom hours, students will be exploring how they can insulate structures to protect from extreme hot and extreme cold using recycled and/or repurposed materials. Students will make observations and collect data related to temperature. Student findings will be communicated through science journals, student generated models (charts, 3D structures, drawings, etc.).
• Lightning Strikes Thrice - Empire State Building - 3-ESS2-1, 3-ESS3-1
  Phenomenon video for 3.1.3. Science Phenomena: 3rd grade - Weather and Climate
• Stilt Houses - 3-ESS2-1, 3-ESS3-1
  Phenomenon video for 3.1.3. Science Phenomena: 3rd grade - Weather and Climate
• UAE Building a Mountain to Increase Rainfall - 3-ESS2-2, 3-ESS3-1
  Phenomenon video for 3.1.3. Science Phenomena: 3rd grade - Weather and Climate

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http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Jennifer  Throndsen and see the Science - Elementary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.