• Observe and record weather conditions.
• Investigate the accuracy of weather predictions.
• Observe cloud formations and note the formations that usually precede certain types of weather.

Activity

• As a follow-up to the "Weather" activities on Surf into Science Grade 3, have children keep a daily weather chart which notes the weather conditions, temperature and cloud formation. Individual recording charts (see example) could be taped on each student desk for this purpose.
  
  For Example:
  
  
  
  Here is the start of Kyle's weather chart.

• Students should be reminded to record information for Saturday and Sunday at home and to add this information to their desk weather chart on Monday.

• Have students watch the weather report on television each night or clip the detailed forecast from the local newspaper. The class and teacher can use this collected data to determine the accuracy of weather predictions. A class chart similar to the one shown might be created.

• For some extra fun, why not take the students outside on a day when the sky is filled with a large number of cumulus clouds? Have them lie on the ground and become cloud observers, noting type of clouds and even objects they "imagine" in the clouds.

• Meanwhile back in the classroom: Remember to read The Cloud Book by Tomie de Paola.

Assessment Tips from Old Tom the Turtle

• At the end of the weather charting activity, collect and review the individual recording charts.

• Have students write a letter to you telling what they have learned about weather and prediction of weather conditions.

• Have the students work in groups of two and create riddle books about the kinds of clouds they have become familiar with. Observe and note students' abilities to determine the kinds of clouds associated with various weather conditions.