What Is Climate?

Notes from our reviewers

The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials.

• Teaching Tips
  Unpacking this short video could easily take a full class period. Comparing the weather and climate in multiple places instead of just two would help better establish these concepts with students. Consider having students research two places in pairs and then discuss findings in small groups or as a class.
• About the Science
  Students learn that weather is what's happening now, and that climate is based on a longer trend of weather patterns. While short, this video includes many complex topics. The science is accurate, but many concepts may need more explanation. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.
• About the Pedagogy
  This one-minute video contains a lot of information. Using the teaching tips, background essay, and supportive materials will help teachers work through this content with students. The video compares Utah to Thailand very quickly (in about 20 seconds). Unpacking this comparison through a deeper discussion of comparative weather and climate may be helpful. The animations represent the learning outcomes well.
• Technical Details/Ease of Use
  Teachers need to have an account with PBS to access the additional materials associated with the video.