101 Questions
Lightning then Thunder
Conquer your fear of thunder and proportions. After viewing a video of lightning and thunder, scholars consider how far away the storm is from the recorder. This obviously requires the use of proportions and rates.
Smarter Balanced
Thunderstorms
Ensure that all class members understand the basic concepts and vocabulary they need to complete a performance task on thunderstorms with an activity that asks them to use a Venn diagram to compare thunderstorms with rainy days.
Read Works
Read Works: Don't Ride the Lightning
[Free Registration/Login Required] An informational text about a teen who was struck by lightning while listening to an MP3 player. A question sheet is available to help students build skills in reading comprehension.
Read Works
Read Works: When Lightning Strikes
[Free Registration/Login Required] Students read lightning: what causes it, when it is seen, and how to stay safe during a lightning storm. A question sheet is available to help students build skills in author's purpose.
The Franklin Institute
Franklin Institute Online: Electrified Ben
This site from the Franklin Institute Online provides a somewhat simplistic but interesting tale of Ben's electrical activities. Fine link to "electricity bells", in Franklin's own words. Some other links to projects, maybe not so...
Exploratorium
Exploratorium: Super Sparker
This is an activity using common household materials that will demonstrate a static electricity discharge.
Read Works
Read Works: Wild Weather
[Free Registration/Login Required] Students read about different types of March weather including: clouds, blizzards, thunder, lightning, and rainbows. A question sheet is available to help students build skills in cause and effect.