Normal Climate Patterns

Introduction

Can you predict what the weather will be like in your area six months from today?

While you may not be able to give a detailed description of the day's temperature or the exact likelihood of rain or snow, you can probably make an accurate estimate of the general conditions. The yearly pattern of temperatures and precipitation experienced during each month are generally predictable. The long term pattern of weather—established by gathering and compiling data over many years—describes the climate of your location.

In this activity, you'll explore your location's climate in order to inform a pen pal what type of weather he can expect to experience during an upcoming visit. You'll generate and explore a variety of graphs, charts, and map images and interpret them to develop your understanding of normal climate.

Keeping Track of What You Learn

In these pages, you'll find two kinds of questions.

• Checking In questions are intended to keep you focused on key concepts. They allow you to check if the material is making sense. These questions are often accompanied by hints or answers to let you know if you are on the right track.
• Stop and Think questions are intended to help your teacher assess your understanding of the key concepts and skills. These questions require you to pull some concepts together or apply your knowledge in a new situation.

Your teacher will let you know which questions you should answer and turn in.