SD228 Students Take to the Slopes to Collect Weather Data

Early on a cold Friday morning, Hillcrest High School science teachers Ms. Coradina Tate and Mr. Jacob Mooney boarded a bus, along with Ecology Club and Chemistry students, to travel to the slopes of Snowstar Winter Sports Park in Andalusia, Illinois. The ski park is a family oriented resort just minutes outside the Quad Cities located in Coal Creek Valley above the Mississippi River.

The 51 young scientists were from both Bremen and Hillcrest High Schools. Students received skiing instructions and afterwards were allowed to explore the slopes before beginning their tasks.

Students worked in groups using self-made weather instruments to measure wind speed, temperature, and pressure. After collecting data, students made inferences to predict the weather for the following day and represented the information on a weather map using symbols and graphics very similar to those used by meteorologists. “We had only been studying weather for a few days, so learning the symbols, concepts, and understanding weather phenomena was a challenge for students applying it to real-life. However, the students did very well. I am proud of their determination and drive to complete the task,” said Ms. Tate. “The trip was awesome and educational,” said student Sean Murphy. “The Snowstar staff are always elated to see District 228 students come because they are so respectful and well-behaved. The students had a great time and many asked if they could please return next year,” said Ms. Tate.