Meteorologists in the Making

This activity works best at the end of a weather unit. Make it a point to watch weather forecasts several times a week throughout the unit, not only for your local area, but throughout the country so that students are exposed to a variety of weather systems. Have students take notes on the types of things weather reports include. The more familiar your students are with news weather reports, the better their own presentations will be!

1. Have students brainstorm a list of types of weather. (i.e. hot & humid, snowstorm, tornado, hurricane, etc.)

2. Have students break into groups of 3. Randomly assign groups a type of weather or weather event to report on. Make sure each group has something different so that the video covers a variety of weather topics.

3. Create a list of requirements for the forecasts (allow students to help with this). This could include; high and low temperatures, humidity, heat index, wind chill, precipitation, clouds, high/low pressure, fronts, wind, safety information, sunrise/sunset, moon phases, five day forecasts, map of area, viewer photos, “on location” piece, etc

4. Students will work together to create a script. When students have completed their scripts, allow them to partner up with another group to get feedback and peer review. When they are finished revising their script, allow them to type it and submit it to you for additional suggestions.

5. When students have a final script, they can begin creating a PowerPoint presentation that will be the background for their report. This works well if you have a Smart Board or projector screen that they can stand in front of while reporting. Again, provide students an opportunity to get feedback from other groups, as well as yourself.

6. If possible, give each group an opportunity to film an “on location” piece. This can be filmed on the playground on a day where the weather is similar to that which they are reporting on. (For example, very windy day for those reporting on a hurricane or a sunny day for those reporting about a very hot and humid day). Students should plan to dress in a way that would be appropriate for that weather. (For example, winter jacket, hats and gloves if they are reporting on a snowstorm coming, even if the actual outside temperature is quite warm). This will take some planning on part of the teacher to make sure he/she takes advantage of the types of weather they are actually experiencing. If the classroom has access to multiple Flip Video Cameras, the teacher can check them out to the students over the weekend and they can film their “on location” piece in a special location (for example, the beach).

7. Have students develop their set and create/bring in any necessary props. They will need to decide on a name for their station. Allow them plenty of time to rehearse their weather reports and stress to them the importance of memorizing their scripts. Give them opportunities to practice in front of the class so they feel comfortable in front of an audience.

8. On the day of filming encourage students to dress professionally.

9. Students will present their forecast presentations while being filmed using a Flip Video Camera.

10. These weather clips can be sent to other grade levels to be enjoyed. Teachers can also contact a local news station and invite a meteorologist out to the school to speak to the kids and watch their weather presentations.