T/G Layout 1

Authors:

Stu Chapman, Southampton Middle School, Bel Air, Maryland

Bill Davis, DuVal High School, Lanham, Maryland

Tony Marcino, Margaret Brent Middle School, Helen, Maryland

Grade Level: 5–8

Objectives:

Students will be able to:

1. Use statistical methods to analyze and display direct readout APT infrared (thermal)
   imagery;


2. Communicate experimental pro c e d u res through mapping and computer simulation;


3. Classify clouds into three types according to the altitude of the cloud tops using
   infrared APT imagery photographs; and


4. Use cloud classification data to predict possible locations where precipitation may
   be forecast.

Science Thinking Skills:

Categorizing, classifying, constructing, contrasting, decision-making, defining, describing,

discussing, generalizing, identifying, identifying the main idea, justifying, observing, org a-

nizing, sequencing, summarizing, visualizing

Relevant Disciplines:

Earth and space science, geography, mathematics, art

Time Requirement:

Three science periods on successive days:

day 1 - warm-up exercise, classifying clouds

day 2 - classifying clouds on infrared APT images

day 3 - simulating computer imaging software

Image Format:

APT infrared imagery

Materials:

1. 35 mm slides depicting at least nine major cloud types. If slides are unavailable,
   substitute textbook pictures.


2. Four to five sets of cloud cards displaying various cloud types and classifications
   (pages 199–201).


3. Student worksheets and , U.S. outline map, one student scanner
   map, and the computer simulation worksheet, all enclosed.


4. APT groundstation(s), images obtained via internet, or photographs of satellite
   images.


5. One infrared APT image of the local geographic area - l a rge enough to display
   to the whole class - which clearly displays local topographic surface features
   (such as the Great Lakes), and all three of the major cloud types as classified by
   h e i g h t.


6. APT infrared images - at least three per group - showing at least two of the major
   cloud types (high, middle, low). These may be supplied on disks for available
   ground stations, or as photographs of satellite images.

CL A S S I F I C AT I O N O F CL O U D TY P E S

TH R O U G H IN F R A R E D APT IM A G E RY