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Clouds, Climate, and Weather MSP
Summer Camp Course Description
This camp is targeted for middle school students entering grades 6-8 in the
fall. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students have a chance to become
experts on Clouds, Climate and Weather. They learn how to "do science"
by using observations and experiments, and develop their abilities to critically
question topics in weather and climate.Such questions as "Do cities affect weather?", "Can it really rain fish and frogs?", and "What is the greenhouse effect after all?" are answered. Various learning strategies using art, storytelling, play writing, poetry and video creation are used to help students discover the secrets. The program's emphasis is on how exciting and rewarding this area of study can be, and how they can apply their advanced knowledge of Clouds, Climate and Weather in their futures.
Each day is filled with science content from 9 am to 3 pm. Two certified, experienced teachers designed the course and taught the lessons. At least two volunteers were in the classroom at all times.
The week also includs a full day field trip to the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Mesa Lab. One evening includes a star viewing session with telescopes. A final group project is introduced in the beginning as part of the structure for the week.
