Description:
Students obtain basic background information related to El Niño, then construct a mathematical model using both historical and real-time water temperature data from a buoy at the equator. They investigate the rainfall totals for San Diego during the same years, and construct a model to determine if we are currently in an El Niño cycle. They write a speculation paper on the effects of El Niño on the rainfall in San Diego, and submit it to a local community leader in charge of disaster preparedness for review.

Organization:
Poway Unified School District

URL:
http://powayusd.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/elnino/el_nino.htm

Contact:
pusdhelp@sdcoe.k12.ca.us, 13626 Twin Peaks Rd., Poway, CA, 92064, Phone: (858) 748-0010

Cost:
Free

Education Level:
Grades 5-8
Grades 9-12

Subject:
Climate
El Niño
Oceanography -Physical

Resource Type:
Internet Site
Curriculum/Instructional Materials

Date Added to teachearth.com:
3/20/01