This document provides information about an 8th grade science task that assesses students' understanding of how the sun affects climate and weather on Earth. The task has students work in groups to complete a cross-classification chart using articles about the sun's influence. They will then individually answer two questions in paragraphs. The task is meant to be completed in 60 minutes and will be assessed using the attached rubric. The task addresses science benchmarks about the sun being the primary energy source for Earth and affecting its climate and weather.

1. Overall Task Template
Title of task: Here Comes the Sun
Grade level and content area: 8th
grade Science
Short Task (X) Extended Task ( )
Authors* Jeanine Nakakura, Kimberly Anthony-Maeda
Learning target(s) this task assesses
• Identify the similarities and differences between climate and weather
• Recognize that the sun is the primary source of Earth’s energy
• Explain how the sun affects climate and weather on Earth
Information for the teacher
• Task overview (can include explanation of what unit this task is part of)
This short performance task is to be used with the extended task. The information from
the short task will be incorporated into the newspaper feature article for the extended
performance task.
• Big idea(s) and essential question(s):
--The sun is the primary source of Earth’s energy and affects its climate and weather.
--How does the sun influence climate and weather on Earth?
Entire benchmark with portion(s) addressed bolded:
Science Benchmarks:
8.8.4: Explain how the sun is the major source of energy influencing climate and weather
on Earth.
CCSS Anchor Standards
8.R.1 Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts.
STEM Competencies:
An effective community contributor who is STEM literate will . . .
●collaborate and make positive contributions toward achievement of the group’s task
Resources: computer with internet access, cross-classification handout
A variety of articles are offered for teacher and student choice (see LiveBinder:

2. http://www.livebinders.com/play/play_shared_binder?id=282057)
• Time requirement: This lesson will take approximately 60 minutes
The task in student-ready form (see handout)
Student handout(s) that accompany the task (see handout)
The rubric (see handout)

3. Template for “Student-ready” Task
Learning target(s) in student-friendly language
Context (Can include a life-beyond-school scenario; should include reference to the learning
targets)
Assignment (What students are to create)
Steps to follow (Specific instructions)
Work in groups of 3 to complete the cross-classification chart. Use the Livebinder site
(http://www.livebinders.com/play/play_shared_binder?id=282057) to access articles for the short
performance task.
Using the completed chart, students will individually answer two questions in paragraph form.
Materials (List or include reference to resources and other materials students will need to
complete the task)
How your work will be scored (Reference or attach rubric)