Let's create continuous conversations about climate change education: Spreading the Sediment of Science!

What the Wind Does for Me

Provided by: Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education |Published on: August 7, 2023

Lesson Plans Grades k-2, 3-5

Synopsis

This lesson is useful for teaching students about how wind is formed, high and low pressure, how to use our senses to see, feel, smell, hear, or taste wind, and the differences between cold and warm air.
The lesson includes a teacher guide, spaces for students to draw or write, a wind scale chart, and extensions for a refrigerator investigation and making a wind chime.

Subjects: Science, Visual and Performing Arts

Authors: Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education, University of Wisconsin Stevens Point K-12 Energy Education Program

Region: North America, USA - Midwest, United States, Global, Wisconsin

Languages: English

Positives

Prerequisites

The worksheets can be printed off before starting the lesson and items for the wind chime can be scavenged from school grounds or recycling bins.
As it pertains to wind, students need to know the difference between softness and hardness (i.e., gentle wind and strong wind).
Advanced students can take notes in the location of your choice and more information about this lesson can be found in this guide.

Differentiation & Implementation

This lesson plan can enhance a classroom discussion about cold fronts, warm fronts, and how both are connected to wind.
This lesson plan can support a classroom discussion on how wind can impact the physical features of a rock.
This lesson plan can augment a classroom activity where students compare solar energy and wind energy.
This can supplement a classroom discussion about other systems on Earth that impact human activity.
Check out KEEP's Wind Kit to support this lesson. Activities in the Wind Kit help students learn about wind through reading, hands-on activities, inquiry and observation.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

Standards

Resource Type and Format