A cloud record needs a safe viewpoint and a date

Use a suitable window view or selected photograph, never direct Sun viewing. Recording time, visible coverage and any obstruction gives the next observation something meaningful to be compared with.

To hand: A window view and dated sheet.

Choose a viewing time. Describe visible coverage. Repeat later.

Describe what the viewpoint actually allowed

Two records can differ because clouds changed between observations.

Use the same broad descriptive categories each time. Record obstructed views so an incomplete observation is not mistaken for clear sky.

Never look directly at the Sun.

Were the viewing conditions comparable? Use an educator-selected photograph.

Resources

• Cloud observation – Weather Watchers Major Activity — Use the observation format for dated sky descriptions from a suitable viewpoint.

Further reading

• CSIRO — inquiry and explicit teaching

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