Scaffolded notes
Build the idea
Climate summarizes long-term patterns
Climate descriptions use many years of observations to describe typical ranges, seasonal patterns, and extremes. A climate normal is commonly calculated over a multi-decade period. Daily weather varies around those longer-term patterns.
North Carolina has regional contrasts
Elevation generally makes the Mountains cooler than lower areas. Slopes can force air upward, changing cloud and precipitation patterns. The Atlantic Ocean moderates some coastal temperatures and provides moisture. The Piedmont lies between these influences.
One storm meets different surfaces
Terrain can enhance precipitation on windward slopes, cold air can become trapped near the ground, and warm ocean water can supply moisture to coastal systems. Land cover and urban surfaces also influence local temperature and runoff.
Stop and explain
Check your thinking
1. Why is one year insufficient to define climate?
Possible response: Climate describes long-term distributions and patterns, so many years are needed.
2. How does elevation commonly affect temperature?
Possible response: Higher elevations are generally cooler.
Interactive challenge
Try the science
Which evidence is most appropriate for describing a city's climate?
Before you leave
Exit ticket
Give one reason coastal and mountain weather can differ during the same system.