Curated and Reviewed by
Lesson Planet
This The Intertropical Convergence Zone lesson plan also includes:
- Educational Kit: The Climate Box
- Construction Template
- Updraft tower
- Activity
- Graphic & Image
- Answer Key
- Join to access all included materials
Young scientists know it is hotter along the equator, but why is it also rainier? Through the process of completing two experiments and a worksheet, scholars discover the answer is the intertropical convergence zone. First, they demonstrate that heated air rises. Then, they create their own convection stream to drive a propeller. Finally, they transfer the newly gained knowledge to the larger scale of global air circulation.
27 Views
20 Downloads
CCSS:
Adaptable
Concepts
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
- Complete the first experiment as a demonstration with younger pupils rather than encouraging them to light things on fire
Classroom Considerations
- Activities work best with pairs of pupils
- Use care with open flames and matches
- Activity one suggests disabling smoke detectors; verify with the building supervisor or head of school if this is possible and the proper procedure to get approval
Pros
- Uses easily obtained, common supplies
- Highly engaging experiments
- Connects many ideas that are normally taught in seclusion
Cons
- None