Exploring Weather Maps

This lesson covers the use of weather maps to explain global and local weather patterns. It introduces essential questions, key vocabulary, and explains air pressure's role in weather prediction. The lesson details high and low pressure systems, how to read weather maps, and the significance of isobars. It also covers air masses, types of weather fronts, and the instruments used to measure weather conditions.

What are the two essential questions for understanding weather maps?

• How do ocean currents affect marine life?

• How can you predict the exact temperature for the next week?

• What are the different types of clouds?

• How can you use weather maps to explain global weather patterns and their influence on local weather?

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

Which tool is used to measure air pressure?

• Thermometer

• Barometer

• Weather vane

• Anemometer

What is the average barometric pressure at sea level in millibars?

• 500 millibars

• 2000 millibars

• 1013 millibars

• 1500 millibars

How is a high-pressure system indicated on a weather map?

• With a triangle, usually in green

• With an L, usually in red

• With an H, usually in blue

• With a circle, usually in yellow

What type of weather is typically associated with high-pressure areas?

• Sunny and clear skies

• Cloudy and stormy

• Heavy rain

• Snowy

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What is an isobar?

• A line connecting points of equal temperature

• A line connecting points of equal atmospheric pressure

• A line connecting points of equal wind speed

• A line connecting points of equal humidity

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

What is a cold front?

• A high-pressure system

• A stationary air mass

• A cold air mass replacing a warm air mass

• A warm air mass replacing a cold air mass

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What type of weather is typically associated with a warm front?

• Fast and sudden thunderstorms

• Continuous steady rain

• Snowstorms

• Clear and sunny skies

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

What does a weather vane measure?

• Humidity

• Temperature

• Wind direction

• Air pressure

What is the purpose of a weather balloon?

• To measure temperature at sea level

• To measure wind speed on the ground

• To carry instruments to high altitudes for weather data

• To predict ocean currents