Types of Clouds Foldable
Purpose
The purpose of this activity is to allow students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a hands-on foldable format. This format will have the students take the key information from the nine main types of clouds and match them to their pictures.
Use
In class, this is used as a pre and post note activity.
For the pre-notes activity, I have students cut out the flaps with the names and place over the squares where they think they belong. I then have them write down anything that they may remember about each of those clouds on the attached log. I tell them that by writing it in the log, they will be verifying the information after notes. I usually give students 10 minutes to work on it pre-notes.
For the post-notes activity, I have the students check the information that they wrote down in the log to see if they were correct or not. I use this as a time to discuss how misconceptions in science are normal and that they are what help us learn. Students are then informed that they will need to include description, precipitation types, and location in the sky (low level, mid level, high level, growing). I also encourage them to add in anything about that cloud that they find interesting. I give students 20-30 minutes to complete this section. If you do not have time in class, you can assign it for homework. My suggestion if you are doing the homework route is to check their information before letting them assemble.
How to Assemble
*Note, you will need to do it one sided sheets. The notes may be on the back of the foldable if you desire.*
1. Have students cut out the grid with the names. Make sure that they leave space for their drawings.
2. Have the students attach cumulonimbus cloud name and picture over the box already filled in with the information. Make sure that they only attach it at the top like a hinge.
3. Have the students place them, not glue them down yet, where they believe the clouds should go. Check the clouds and make sure that it looks something like
| Cirrus | Cirrocumulus | Cirrostratus | (Left blank) |
| Altocumulus | Altostratus | Nimbostratus | (Left blank) |
| Cumulus | Stratocumulus | Stratus | Cumulonimbus |
4. Have the students complete the cloud log with prior knowledge about clouds.
5. After notes, have students correct information and begin to glue down only the top part of the name section.
6. Have the students put in the necessary information about clouds under the correct flaps.
Foldable Material
You will need to save a copy of the Clouds Foldable