Earth's Rotation
Objective: This worksheet aims to educate students on the Earth's rotation and its influence on day and night cycles and seasons, with a specific focus on how these phenomena manifest in the climate of a selected country.
Content and methods: The worksheet starts by directing students to watch a YouTube video titled "Why Do We Have Different Seasons? | California Academy of Sciences" and then summarize the connection between Earth's rotation, seasons, and vegetation in their own words. A dedicated section on the effects of Earth's rotation on a particular country provides a detailed text about the country's climate, daylight hours, and temperature variations. Students then answer true/false questions based on this text to assess their comprehension. The worksheet concludes with a crossword puzzle using terms and concepts from the provided texts, reinforcing vocabulary and factual recall.
Competencies:
- Reading comprehension
- Summarization and synthesis of information
- Understanding of scientific concepts (Earth's rotation, seasons, climate)
- Geographical knowledge
- Vocabulary acquisition
Target group: 6th-8th grade
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Target group and level
6th-8th grade
Subjects
Earth's Rotation
How do day & night and the seasons occur?
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Effects of Earth's rotation on Papua New Guinea
Source: Wikipedia
The Earth's rotation plays a critical role in shaping the climate and seasons experienced in Papua New Guinea. As the Earth rotates on its axis, it influences the distribution of sunlight, creating day and night cycles that are fundamental to weather patterns and seasonal changes.
In Papua New Guinea, this rotation results in a tropical climate with little variation in daylight hours throughout the year. The country experiences around 12 hours of daylight daily due to its proximity to the equator. The temperatures are relatively stable, with coastal regions averaging between 25°C to 30°C throughout the year. The highland areas are cooler, averaging 15°C to 25°C.
The warmest months are typically November to April, coinciding with the wet season, where temperatures can reach up to 32°C. The coolest months, from May to October, align with the dry season, with temperatures occasionally dipping to around 20°C in the highlands.
The Earth's rotation also affects atmospheric circulation, contributing to the country's distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season brings heavy rainfall and humidity, while the dry season is characterized by milder conditions and less precipitation. These seasonal changes are vital for the country's agriculture, affecting the growth cycles of crops and the availability of water resources.
One of the most exciting natural phenomena influenced by the Earth's rotation is a solar eclipse. Papua New Guinea will witness an annular solar eclipse on February 5, 2046. During this event, the moon will pass between the Earth and the sun, creating a "ring of fire" effect as the sun's outer edges remain visible.
In summary, the Earth's rotation not only defines the rhythm of day and night but also orchestrates the seasonal cycles and climatic variations that characterize the diverse landscapes of Papua New Guinea. The stable climate and predictable seasons support the country's rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems.