Science Lesson: Heat, Climate & Building Design
Created by Teacher(s): Yen-Yen Chiu|Published on: August 16, 2026
Grades: 6, 7, 8
Type: Lesson Plan
Subjects: Science
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Created by: SubjectToClimate teachers
Region: United States, Global
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
.jpg)
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
In this lesson, students explore how rising temperatures affect communities and buildings by analyzing climate data, thermal images, and classroom materials. Students build an observational foundation for learning formal heat-transfer concepts in Lesson 2.
Inquire: Students explore how people around the world use building design and materials to stay comfortable in different climates.
Investigate: Students analyze temperature, urban heat, and thermal image data to identify patterns in heat distribution and how heat affects communities and buildings.
Inspire: Students investigate building materials and create a thermal map of their classroom to predict how heat moves and to identify opportunities to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.
Related Lessons, Units, and Activities Teaching Materials
Accompanying Materials
Lesson Plan Preview
Teaching Tips
Standards
Teacher Writer
Yen-Yen Chiu
Director of Education
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
