During tornado season, Rich Thompson, lead forecaster at the Storm Prediction Center , answered questions from students about tornado prediction and storm chasing. Read the questions and answers . They begin by creating simple instruments to measure different types of weather phenomena such as air pressure, temperature, wind speed and direction, and precipitation. Students venture into the field to take weather data samples over the course of several weeks. This activity creates a nationwide network of student weather-trackers.
Students post weather data they've collected using their own weather tools.
Daily postings on air pressure, temperature, wind speed and direction, and precipitation inform students around the country on national weather patterns. Students also have the opportunity to create national weather maps using weather lab data. Brainstorm related words, such as precipitation , clouds , wind , and storm and write them on the chalkboard. Have students discuss how these weather phenomena are different or similar to one another. Challenge students to recall recent newsworthy weather phenomena, such as storms, floods, tornadoes, or wildfires.