This unit explores the elements of weather, the relationship between weather and climate, and severe weather. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns, Systems and System Models, and Stability and Change are featured prominently as students study these topics.

The unit begins with students exploring different components of weather and weather reports. Students create weather instruments to collect data for temperature, precipitation and air pressure.
Students then analyze their weather data and use it to create a weather report and forecast. They consider how we use technology to provide weather information to people.
Students then examine the difference between weather and climate by analyzing climate data from around the world. They make connections between climate zones, and the types of crops that can be grown in different locations.
Finally, students define and prepare for hazardous weather with a design challenge. After learning about different types of severe weather, students design structures that would protect a garden from a weather hazard.