Spotlite Design Challenge: Cloud Detectives
Developed in Collaboration with NASA Earth Science Education Collaborative.
Follow these steps to think and act like scientists as you dig through data and experiment to support a claim that confronts a misconception.
- Select one of the MISCONCEPTIONS and its related CLAIM to investigate.
- Do your own RESEARCH by conducting investigations to gather data and collect evidence to support your claim.
- Review the Criteria for the Spotlite video.
- Create the Spotlite video.
Identify the problem: As NASA Cloud Detectives, you are challenged to gather and share evidence to confront misconceptions about clouds.
MISCONCEPTION 1: Not all clouds produce rain.
CLAIM: There are many different types of clouds. Some of them produce rain.
Demonstration and Experimentation Ideas
GLOBE Observer: Clouds
Use the GLOBE Observer app to collect cloud observations.
Science Information Links
Create an aurora bracelet that symbolizes the gas particles responsible for creating an aurora.
Ask learners to explore the visualizations to see if this EVIDENCE supports the CLAIM that "not all clouds produce rain".
MISCONCEPTION 2: Clouds are made of gas.
CLAIM: Clouds are made when water droplets form on tiny particles.
Demonstration and Experimentation Ideas
Cloud in a Jar
Watch a demonstration of the Cloud in a Jar activity [1:14] before trying this yourself.
- Cloud in a Jar activity guide
- Clear glass jar
- Metal tray or plate
- Ice cubes
- Hot water
- Matches
Investigating Clouds
This hands-on activity guides you through a different way to create a cloud in a bottle.
Science Information Links
NASA cares about the safety of all learners!
Safety is important anytime you conduct a science investigation. Common sense guidelines should govern all work.
- Keep all workspaces neat and organized.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as closed-toed shoes.
- Follow directions and ask for clarification.