Contextualization

Weather forecasting is a practical application of atmospheric science that involves attempting to predict the weather conditions in a specific area at a future time. In this unit, we will learn how climate scientists make their forecasts and how our understanding of such events can help us prepare for them.

In our daily lives, we are always attentive to the weather forecast, whether to decide what to wear, plan a walk, or schedule irrigation for a plantation. Weather forecasting helps us make informed decisions and prepare for adverse weather conditions, such as violent storms or heatwaves.

Introduction

Weather forecasting is a fascinating example of how science applies to the real world. It is based on the understanding of fundamental physics concepts, such as pressure, temperature, and humidity, as well as the comprehension of complex atmospheric phenomena, such as high and low-pressure systems, warm and cold fronts, and the interaction between the Earth's surface and the atmosphere.

Weather forecasting also requires the collection and analysis of large amounts of data. Meteorological stations worldwide continuously collect data, which are then consolidated and analyzed by supercomputers using complex mathematical models.

Finally, effective communication of weather forecasts is an essential skill. Weather forecasts need to be easily understood by the general public so that people can make informed decisions based on them.

Importance

Since ancient times, humanity has always tried to predict the weather. Farmers need to know if it will rain to plan planting and harvesting. Builders need to know if it is likely to be windy to ensure the safety of their constructions.

Today, weather forecasting plays a critical role in many aspects of our lives. It is vital for safety in air and sea travel, for the management of energy and water resources, for planning outdoor events, and for preparing for extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and snowstorms.

To delve deeper

To have a solid foundation on the topic of 'Weather Forecasting,' consult the following resources:

• Brazil School Portal: Article entitled 'Weather Forecasting,' which provides a comprehensive overview of the weather forecasting process.
• Futura Channel: Video called 'Understand how weather forecasting is done.' In this video, meteorologist Luiz Cavalcanti explains the weather forecasting process clearly and simply.
• Teacher's Portal - MEC: Lesson Plan 'Meteorology: Understanding weather forecasting.' This resource is a comprehensive guide covering the main concepts involved in weather forecasting.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Junior Meteorologists

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to make the student understand the weather forecasting process through the simulation of a meteorological station, collecting data and analyzing it to make weather forecasts.

Detailed Project Description

Groups of students (3 to 5 students) must create a 'meteorological station' using simple materials, collect data over a defined period of time, and then analyze the collected data to make weather forecasts.

The data to be collected include temperature, wind direction and speed, atmospheric pressure, and humidity. Students will also be encouraged to keep a 'weather diary,' recording the weather conditions every day and comparing their observations with the weather forecasts published by professional meteorological services.

Finally, each group will be responsible for presenting their findings to the class and for writing a detailed report explaining their methodologies, analyses, and conclusions.

Required Materials

• Thermometer
• Anemometer (to measure wind speed and direction)
• Barometer (to measure atmospheric pressure)
• Hygrometer (to measure humidity)
• Notebook and pens
• Internet access to compare forecasts

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution

1. Setting up the meteorological station: Students will set up the meteorological station in a suitable location, away from any obstacles.
2. Data collection: Over a month, students will collect meteorological data daily, noting readings of temperature, wind direction and speed, atmospheric pressure, and humidity.
3. Recording: Students will keep a daily weather diary, recording their observations about the weather conditions and comparing them with the published weather forecasts.
4. Data analysis: Students will analyze the collected data and make their own forecasts.
5. Presentation: Each group will present their findings to the class, highlighting any patterns or trends they observed in the data and explaining how they made their forecasts.
6. Final report: Each group will write a detailed report covering the data collection and analysis methodology, the forecasts made, comparisons with professional forecasts, and any conclusions drawn from the project.

Project Delivery

Students will submit a written document with the following topics:

1. Introduction: Students must contextualize the theme, its relevance and real-world application, as well as the objective of this project.
2. Development: The theory behind the weather forecasting concept should be explained. The detailed description of the activity carried out, data collection and analysis method, results obtained, and discussion of the same.
3. Conclusion: Summarizing the main points, the learnings obtained, and the conclusions drawn from the project.
4. Bibliography: Indication of the sources that students used to work on the project.

Each group will also give a 15-minute oral presentation based on their final report, during which they should explain the methodology of their project, discuss their findings and conclusions, and answer any questions.