Designing Season-Extenders for the Garden

Goal

Students will design a way to keep plants warm in the garden during the cooler months.

Estimated Time

45 Minutes

Setting Required

Inside

Standards

  • S4E4. Students will analyze weather charts/maps and collect weather data to predict weather events and infer patterns and seasonal changes.
    • a. Identify weather instruments and explain how each is used in gathering weather data and making forecasts (thermometer, rain gauge, barometer, wind vane, anemometer).
    • b. Using a weather map, identify the fronts, temperature, and precipitation and use the information to interpret the weather conditions.
    • c. Use observations and records of weather conditions to predict weather patterns throughout the year.

Materials

  • Journals or 8.5×11 copy paper (1 per student)
  • Coloring supplies (enough for each student)

Procedures

  1. Explain to students that they will use what they have learned about weather patterns to design a way to keep plants warm in the garden during the cooler months so they can be planted earlier.
  2. Give students the opportunity to research methods of season extension and work together in their small groups to draw a sketch of their idea and label the features.