OBJECTIVES:

1) Knowledge:

• review the characteristics of the local physical environment: climate

• become familiar with sources of geographic information: almanacs, public library-government documents.

choose a suitable method and scale, using a computer program, for graphing a set of data. 

• opportunity to develop group skills of working collaboratively.

1. Average Annual Temperatures for the last 50 years- Locally (not provided)
2. Computer Software: MS Works
3. Computer Assignment
4. Printer

1. Divide the class into groups of three.
2. Provide students with average annual temperatures for the local community over the last 50 years, if possible, or have groups obtain them themselves.
3. Have the groups complete the spreadsheet, apply the formulas, and print a multiple-line graph for each student in the group- group name in sub-title.
4. Have groups write a one page essay discussing the patterns. eg Changes? Significance? Possible reasons?

Approximately three or four 55 minute periods, plus research if required.

EVALUATION:

1. Teacher monitors group work using observation checklists.
2. One-page essay describing the patterns and possible reasons.
3. Completion of task marks for the graphs.

1. Do the same exercise, but use precipitation data.

1. Together We Learn by Clarke et al.
2. An Introduction to Computing Using Microsoft Works by Presley and Freitas.
3. On-Line Data Access- Internet