This inquiry explores the weather and climate of North Dakota through the investigation of the compelling question “Has weather and climate impacted where and how you live?” The importance of understanding weather and climate in this inquiry is twofold: (1) students should be able to understand the how weather and climate have influenced the state’s modern economy and quality of living and (2) how several key industries, including agriculture and tourism, are significantly impacted by weather and climate. While progressing through the inquiry, students will analyze the climate of the state and severe weather conditions to speculate future scenarios.
This inquiry is expected to take two class periods; however, teachers are encouraged to adapt the inquiry to meet the needs and interests of their students and the amount of time they have available.
- Internet and library resources
- Floods and Blizzards Document Set
Understand: Identify severe weather event that has impacted your local community in the past and/or present.
Assess: Describe ramifications in your community as a result of the severe weather event. Is this something that could happen again? Has the community taken steps to manage the risks related to this type of weather event?
Act: Take the poster you created and use your research to create a short documentary film. Present the video to your community during a history fair.