Types Of Clouds Activity For Kids

Hands-on activities are part of what makes science so interesting for kids. So, today I want to share a fun, hands-on science activity for teaching your students about the different types of clouds. The best part is, it’s free!

Cloud Classification Challenge – A Types Of Clouds Activity

This activity is a twist on the classic cotton ball clouds poster. Yes, your students will make clouds out of cotton balls. They’ll also build their descriptive writing skills and attempt to classify their classmates’ clouds.

It’s a lot of fun. Let’s take a look at how this activity works.

This project is a lot of fun. Your students will love creating different types of clouds out of cotton balls and trying to identify the types of clouds their classmates make. So, let’s take a look this activity works.

Supplies

Each student will need the following materials.

• White, blue, or grey construction paper
• Glue
• Cotton balls
• Pencil
• Directions page
• Writing page

Directions

Here are the steps each student will need to complete for the types of clouds project:

Step 1 – Look at the directions page and read the description of each type of cloud. Pick a type of cloud to create.

Step 2 – Sketch an outline of the cloud onto the construction paper. Glue the cotton balls onto the construction paper to fill in the cloud. Consider the characteristics of the type of cloud being made and shape the cotton balls by pulling and stretching them as needed.

Step 3 – Using the description of each type of cloud as a guide, use a gray marker to tint the cloud light or dark gray if appropriate.

Step 4 – Write a description of the cloud on the writing paper. Remember to use adjectives to describe the cloud but not to identify the type of cloud.

Step 5 – Write the type of cloud on the writing paper as indicated. Then, cut out the umbrella top and glue it onto the paper to create a flap.

Step 6 – Challenge a classmate to guess the type of cloud you make by looking at your cloud and reading the description you wrote.

Download The Types of Clouds Project Directions and Printables

Pop in your email address and grade level below, and I’ll send the activity directions straight to your inbox. (Many districts block attachments, so it’s best to use your personal email.)

Explore Different Types Of Clouds

Once your students are done making their clouds, pick a few clouds to show the class. See if the
class can identify the types of clouds you show them. Then, talk about how
cloud classification can be challenging.

A fun and exciting extension activity would be sharing photos from the internet of less common
visually engaging cloud formations like lenticular clouds, mammatus clouds, or
shelf clouds. There are some incredible pictures out there!

I truly hope your class enjoys this project idea because learning should be fun
whenever it can be.

Don’t Forget To Grab The Free Project Directions And Printables!

Don’t forget to grab your free printable project directions. Simply enter your personal email below, and I’ll send them right to your inbox.

Need Engaging Teaching Resources To Go Along With The Types Of Clouds Writing Activity?

Check out these kid-friendly informational books on clouds and the water cycle. Or, grab a deal with the weather activities bundle, which includes both.

Save $$$ with the bundle!

Grab both mini-books and more in the weather bundle. You’ll save money and time compared to purchasing the products individually!

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