Before Watching
Avalanche researchers need to be concerned with a wide range of variables
including the kind of snow that falls (such as light, dry, or wet), and the
cumulative layering of snow on any hillside. As they watch the program, have
students develop a list of properties of snow, the kind of environmental
factors that might shape how layers of snow pack together, and the kinds of
snow that fall.
After Watching
Have students continue discussing the characteristics and properties of snow
and how scientists use this information in avalanche research. What kinds of
environmental factors might influence how layers of snow fall? What kinds of
snowpack layers indicate an area is at high risk for avalanches? How do people
who have seen or been caught in avalanches describe how the snow changes
before, during, and after an avalanche?
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