Modeling Climate Data with a Sinusoidal Function
In this lesson, Mary and Claire transform the sine function using sliders to model temperature data. They use their models to predict future patterns in temperature.
Episode 1: Making Sense
The students begin by exploring an applet to investigate how various transformations of the sine function affect the shape of its graph.
Episode 2: Exploring
Mary and Claire use the applet to create a model of the average maximum temperature in Houghton, using averages from 1961 to 1990.
Episode 3: Repeating Your Reasoning
Mary and Claire use the applet to create a model of the average maximum temperature in Houghton, using averages from 1981-2010.
Episode 4: Reflecting
Mary and Claire reflect on what the differences in these models might suggest for future temperatures.