The Atmosphere surrounds us, but how much do we really know and understand about it?

This is an interdisciplinary resource is developed by SatSchool using current research and development from global scientific communities. It is an adaption of the SatSchool Atmosphere module StoryMap. 

This module is structured by key ideas, and include prompts or questions and activities throughout the document, to encourage active engagement with these ideas. Both the Ozone and Weather explain what the atmosphere is, what satellites are and how we can measure the atmosphere. The Atmosphere: Weather explores what and how storms develop, how atmospheric pressure affects and develops these, and severe weather forecasting. The Atmosphere: Ozone explores what ozone is, historical and current scientific developments in ozone imaging, and how we discovered and monitor the ozone hole.  

The resource aims to develop and encourage curiosity through an expansive, globalised and scientific understanding of the atmosphere. Learners should be able to understand how research components interact to produce a comprehensive overview of the atmosphere, and the effects that climate change may be having upon the atmosphere.  

This resource makes accessible complex ideas about the atmosphere, what it’s composed of and how we can measure this. The age range is therefore adaptable to learners aged 7-14.  

This resource is an adaptation of one of six SatSchool Earth Observation Educational Modules. View or download the OER collection here! 

Learning Outcomes 

Ozone: 

SCN 2-15a: By contributing to investigations into familiar changes in substances to produce other substances, I can describe how their characteristics have changed.  

SCN 2-20a: Through research and discussion, I have an appreciation of the contribution that individuals are making to scientific discovery and invention and the impact this has made on society. 

SCN 2-20b: I can report and comment on current scientific news items to develop my knowledge and understanding of topical science.  

SCN 3-05b: I can explain some of the processes which contribute to climate change and discuss the possible impact of atmospheric change on the survival of living things.  

SCN 3-15b: Having contributed to a variety of practical activities to make and break down compounds, I can describe examples of how the properties of compounds are different from their constituent elements.  

SCN 3-16a: I can differentiate between pure substances and mixtures in common use and can select appropriate physical methods for separating mixtures into their components.  

SCN 4-06a: By researching developments used to observe or explore space, I can illustrate how our knowledge of the universe has evolved over time. 

Weather: 

SCN 2-20b: I can report and comment on current scientific news items to develop my knowledge and understanding of topical science. 

SCN 3-20a: I have collaborated with others to find and present information on how scientists from Scotland and beyond have contributed to innovative research and development. 

SCN 3-05b: I can explain some of the processes which contribute to climate change and discuss the possible impact of atmospheric change on the survival of living things. 

SCN 4-06a: By researching developments used to observe or explore space, I can illustrate how our knowledge of the universe has evolved over time. 

SOC 4-12a: I can identify threats facing the main climate zones, including climate change, and analyse how these threats impact on the way of life.  

SOC 4-12c: I can demonstrate an understanding of weather and climate by explaining the relationship between weather and air pressure. 

Header image:

July 3, 2013 by Earth Observatory NASA is freely available for re-use

The Amtosphere logo is designed by Calum Hoad.