Atmospheric Layers Lesson Overview
Students will look at the different layers of the atmosphere to determine how the atmosphere helps sustain life on Earth. The students will model the layers of the atmosphere through an interactive lab that looks at characteristics of the atmosphere by analyzing the atmospheric temperature profile and the special features that can be found in each layer.
Resources
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| Duration 110 minutes |
Setting Classroom |
Grouping Whole class and groups of 3-4 students |
PTI Inquiry 1.3, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.7, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.9 |
| Lesson Components | Time | Inquiry Skills | Tech. Used | Engage Level | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engage | 8-10 min | 1.3, 3.7 | YouTube Video | 1 | Red Bull jump from stratosphere video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHtvDA0W34I |
| Explore | 60 min | 3.5, 3.7, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 | none | 3 | Students will look at the layer tube and then use it to label their lab sheet. Students will then observe and graph data. |
| Explain | 20-25 min | 3.3, 3.4, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.9 | none | 3 | Students will sort the words and pictures into their appropriate place within Earth’s layers.. Students will write the info on their lab sheet. |
| Expand | 8-10 min | 3.5, 5.2, 5.3 | digital image | 2 | Students will view the full jump video, respond to questions, and discuss. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvbN-cWe0A0 |
| Evaluate | 5 min | 5.1 | none | 1 | Exit slip- will check for student understanding. |
Level of Student Engagement
| 1 | Low | Listen to lecture, observe the teacher, individual reading, teacher demonstration, teacher-centered instruction |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Medium | Raise questions, lecture with discussion, record data, make predictions, technology interaction with assistance |
| 3 | High | Hands-on activity or inquiry; critique others, draw conclusions, make connections, problem-solve, student-centered |
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