Notice & predict
One clue or enough clues?
Predict a mountain explanation.
Curiosity Bundle
Why is it colder on mountains?
Closer is only one clue, and it may be the wrong one to focus on.
Compare distances in a small model, then explore the air above the ground and what happens as air rises.
IgniteStart with the puzzle
Put a small paper peak on a ball with a distant flashlight above it. Ask, "The peak is closer to the light. Does that tell us its temperature?"
Offer one puzzle. Leave room for a guess.
Put a small paper peak on a ball with a distant flashlight above it. Ask, "The peak is closer to the light. Does that tell us its temperature?"
Another way to begin
Ask, "What else would we need to know before guessing how warm a mountaintop is?"
Use the paper diagram idea without a flashlight; it tests reasoning, not temperature.
KindleOne clue or enough clues?
Notice and predict before reading. Keep the first idea.
ReadExplore the place and the idea
Both readings are part of the exploration. Read together or across days.
DoTry it and look again
Try the investigation and record what you notice.
Investigation
Nearer, but what does that prove?
Compare two model distances.
CheckWhat would you say now?
Revisit the readings and investigation. Parent answers print separately.
A light check
What would you say now?
Revisit both readings.
Sources and review notes
Local review edition. Physical activities, diagrams, and family usability still need review. Times are estimates. See the parent guide for each activity’s safety instructions and model limits.
- Elevation and TemperatureBrief source checked; general lower-atmosphere temperature pattern and surface heating; no universal lapse rate.
- Layers of the AtmosphereDisclosed additional source checked; troposphere and general temperature pattern.
- How Clouds FormDisclosed additional source checked; rising expansion cooling condensation and particles; no sponge proof.