This nonfiction article is written for use with upper-elementary students (grades 4-5) but can also be used with middle school students. Students learn about two of Saturn's moons, albedo, the relationship between heat absorption and temperature, and how decreasing sea ice in the Arctic actually contributes to further melting. Modified versions are available for students in grades K-1 and grades 2-3, or any student needing a simplified version. At each grade level, the article is available in text, printable pdf files allowing you to print the story in either text or a foldable book format, and an electronic version. Reading strategy templates and related activities provide tips for integrating this story with your science and literacy instruction.
Join schools from around the world from March 2 to May 22 as they determine how their geographic location (i.e. where they live) affects their average daily temperature and hours of sunlight. Specifically, students will: Measure the temperature and record the number of minutes of sunlight per day over a common week; Compare and contrast the results with classes from all over the world; and Determine how proximity to the equator affects average daily temperature and hours of sunlight.
"This week, we're looking back at the school year and collecting the lessons we published by subject area. On Tuesday, we published our social studies, history, geography and civics collection; Thursday, look for English language arts, fine arts and journalism.
Below, you'll find everything we did that falls into the categories of science, math, health and technology. And if you want even more lessons in these subject areas, you might take a look at our 2010 and 2011 collections as well."