Activity

Clouds and the weather

In this activity, students explore cloud formation. They observe clouds and learn about different cloud types and how they can be used to predict the weather.

Rain clouds over the sea, off the coast of Bermuda.

Clouds and the weather

There are many different types of clouds in the troposphere.

Rights: Len (Doc) Radin, CC 2.0

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • demonstrate and explain how clouds form

  • identify at least three basic cloud types

  • predict the weather based on cloud formation in the sky and explain why they have given this prediction.

Download the Word file for:

  • introduction/background notes

  • what you need

  • what to do

  • extensio n activity.

Related content

Traditional wayfinding involves observing and understanding nature. Cloud formations help navigators predict weather while out at sea.

Our article on weather forecasting includes an interactive timeline summarising the major historical developments in weather monitoring and forecasting.

The Connected  article Sun, wind or rain? covers weather prediction.

Activity idea

The activity Precipitation and cloud formation uses a slideshow to help explain cloud and precipitation processes.

Useful links

Download a Clouds poster from the MetService.

Extra information about clouds and cloud types from the Weather Wiz Kids website is here.

This site gives a more detailed look at non-instrument weather forecasting – it includes winds, ocean swells, waves and currents, clouds, colour in the atmosphere, light around celestial bodies, smells and animal behaviour.

Published: 13 November 2014,Updated: 13 November 2014