Heavier Rainfall in 129 U.S. Cities
Data, Graphs, and Maps
Grades6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Earth and Space Sciences
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Provided by Climate Central
What it is
- This resource examines how extreme rainfall events have intensified across cities in the United States.
- Students will understand how rainfall has changed across the United States and the impacts this can have on communities.
Teaching tips
Prerequisites:
- Use this resource with students who understand how climate change impacts the water cycle.
- Define the terms flash flood, landslide, water-borne, and others.
- Ensure students have some familiarity with reading data tables and interpreting graphs.
Differentiation:
- Note that the data resources are available in both English and Spanish, but the video is only available in English. To make this more accessible for Spanish-speaking students learning English, consider slowing the video playback speed.
Classroom Implementation:
- Begin the class by asking students how climate change impacts the water cycle and precipitation. Have students discuss with someone near them. Then, have students go around the room in a gallery walk to view the different data resources. Have students return to their seats and summarize what the graphs show in a few sentences. Have students read the article, and amend their summaries based on what they read. Finish by playing the video and having students consider how their analyses compare to the summarization in the video.
Extensions:
- Use this article as an entry point for discussing environmental justice and environmental racism, highlighting that black communities and those in mobile homes are more susceptible than others.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
- Math:
- Have students download the Excel data file to calculate averages, create charts, and compare precipitation trends across regions.
From the scientist review
This article discusses recent research that found the 1-hour rainfall intensity is increasing across most US cities. The article explains the research methodology, how the increased rainfall intensity is related to climate change, and how the impacts of this increase will be felt disproportionately by disadvantaged communities. Links to additional resources and to the studies mentioned are included. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
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