Like a rock that slowly wears away beneath the pressure of a waterfall, our climate is almost imperceptibly changing. Glaciers are getting smaller, droughts are lasting longer, and "extreme weather events" like fires, floods, and tornadoes are occurring with greater frequency. Why? One part of the answer is clouds.
Scientists in the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program are studying the natural phenomena that occur in clouds, and how those cloud conditions affect the sun's incoming and outgoing energy and, in the longer term, our climate. Complementing their research, the goal of the Education and Outreach Program is to develop basic science awareness and increase critical thinking skills focusing on environmental science and climate change for K-12 students. In addition, the program supports relationship building between teachers, students, scientists, and communities. To learn more about our outreach program, start out in Homeroom.
Climate science is cool!! You may not think so, but a visit to our Study Hall may change your mind. Check out our puzzles and interactive quizzes - then try to stump a scientist with a question!
Want some tools and tips to help you teach kids about climate and the environment? Do you need a little refresher yourself? For lesson plan ideas or to learn more about our workshop program, visit the Teachers' Lounge.