The Moon can only be seen at night, electricity only comes from batteries, and dinosaurs and cavemen lived at the same time--these are just a few of the misconceptions students have about science (Phillips 1991). Though instructional labs, demonstrations, and textbooks can alter misunderstandings for a quiz or test, students often revert back to…

Discusses the nature and effects of the El Nino/Southern Oscillation phenomenon. Indicates that new understanding of the phenomenon from current data will provide a global view of climate that has never before been within reach. (JN)

Presents a technique for teaching meteorology allowing students to observe and analyze consecutive weather maps and relate local conditions; a model illustrating the three-dimensional nature of the atmosphere is employed. Instructional methods based on studies of daily weather maps to trace systems sweeping across the United States are discussed.…

Introduces Wilson A. Bentley, who studied precipitation. Discusses Bentley's method for measuring the number, size, and shape of raindrops and determining the rate of rainfall. Lists required materials and explains the procedure for students and teachers. Provides scientific background on condensation and precipitation. (YDS)

Describes a teaching procedure designed to show that there is a logical, predictable arrangement (of climates) that results from the actions and effects of a few global climatic controls." An hypothetical continent is used to develop these principles which are then applied to real situations. (AL)

Indicates that atmospheric science is not just forcasting the weather. Gives an overview of current topics in meteorology including ozone depletion, acid precipitation, winter cyclones, severe local storms, the greenhouse effect, wind shear and microbursts. Outlines the Atmospheric Sciences Education Program at Purdue University to produce…

Describes the importance of the general circulation in the atmosphere and oceans in creating the earth's climates. (AL)

Describes an activity to learn about meteorology and weather using the internet. Discusses the National Weather Service (NWS) internet site www.weather.gov. Students examine maximum and minimum daily temperatures, wind speed, and direction. (SAH)

Educating the public about safety issues related to severe weather is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) mission. This article deals with a poster entitled, "Severe Weather," that has been created by NOAA to help educate the public about hazardous weather conditions. The four types of severe weather highlighted in…

Describes how to collect micrometeorites and suggests a number of related activities such as determining the number of meteors entering the atmosphere and determining the composition of the micrometeorites. (BR)

Examines the hydrologic cycle, the overall flow of water in the geosystem. Reviews the basic phase relationships among water, ice, and water vapor which are integrat parts of the hydrologic cycle. (JR)

Presents examples of what can be done with CD-ROMs to enhance learning about weather and climate. Topics include hurricanes and tropical storms, climatic studies with CD-ROM archives, and assessment. (JRH)