Weather In A Bottle

A. Wills
Multiple Subject Teacher

Students will discuss types of weather and create their own tornado in a bottle.

Grade Level: K - 1st

Subject:

Length of Time: About 20 Minutes

Objectives & Outcomes

Students will be able to identify different types of weather based on pictures and create a mini-weather system in a bottle.

Materials Needed

  •  basic pictures of various types of weather (included)
  • clear, clean plastic bottle with lid (per student)
  • glitter
  • dish washing soap

Procedure

Opening to Lesson

  • Have students gather around a window or door so that they can look outside.
  • Ask a few students to describe the weather.
  • Ask students what different types of weather they have seen.

Body of Lesson

  • Have students gather in a common area and explain that there are many different types of weather.
  • Share the photos (included) and discuss each one.
  • Ask students how they would dress or prepare for a given type of weather.
  • Explain to students that some types of weather are a little scary, but that most weather is not dangerous.

Closing

  • Tell students they are going to create their own weather in a bottle. This is not a type of weather that most people will experience, but it can be dangerous when it happens in nature. They are going to create a tornado in a bottle.
  • Fill a clean plastic bottle about ¾ full of water (use colored water if desired)
  • Add a few drops of dishwashing liquid (3 to 4)
  • Sprinkle a bit of glitter into the bottle
  • Seal the cap tightly (can use glue for added security)
  • Have students turn the bottle upside down (holding it by the neck) and start moving it in a circular motion as quickly as possible. This may need to be demonstrated. The water should start to swirl and a mini-tornado will form. The glitter makes this easier to see.
  • Have students describe what the tornado looks like. If time permits this is a great time to talk about a home emergency kit for families.

Assessment & Evaluation

Students will show understanding by identifying specific types of weather as well as create a tornado in a tube by following directions.

Modification & Differentiation

Some students may need help in filling the bottle with water or adding soap and glitter.

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