Learning About Extreme Weather With Data

Large-scale data collection and analysis have become central to the activities of science. Many science educators seek ideas and resources to help students learn the science and engineering practice of analyzing and interpreting data with authentic large-scale data sets. Providing students with opportunities to work with and analyze large-scale scientific data that are relevant to their lives may deepen students’ understanding of scientific phenomena and inspire them to pursue data-science fields. Recognizing this potential, the WeatherX project developed curriculum materials that help students in grades 6–8 investigate authentic, large-scale data to learn important science content focused on weather and climate (including NGSS MS-ESS2-5). Through data investigations, students strengthen fundamental data practices recommended by both science educators and mathematics and statistics education leaders.