Exploring the Tradeoffs of Surface Temperature Models
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Provided by: My NASA Data|Published on: August 10, 2026
Data, Graphs, and MapsScientist Reviewed
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Scientist Reviewed 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
- This interactive story map uses maps that compare surface temperature data from the MODIS and Landsat 8 satellites so students can describe the different characteristics of satellite data.
- In 30 minutes, students describe the advantages and disadvantages of using two different satellites to study a phenomenon such as the urban heat island effect.
Subjects: Earth and Space Sciences
Authors: My NASA Data
Region: Texas
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Preparation:
- Teachers need to request the teacher key ahead of time using this form.
- Ensure that each student or student pair has access to a computer.
Classroom Implementation:
- This interactive model is the third part of a three-part sequence of learning experiences about the creation of urban heat islands, although it can be completed in isolation with an introduction to urban heat islands.
- For younger students, consider introducing urban heat islands with this short introductory video.
- For older students, use this 5-minute video that further dives into how redlining practices determine who suffers most from urban heat islands today.
- Use the suggested data worksheet or form to guide student work and assess learning after the activity.
- In groups or as a class, have students create a graphic organizer that compares the trade-offs of the two models, connecting the activity to how scientists choose tools for a research question.
Sustainable Development Goals Connections:
- This resource can be used to make connections to Sustainable Development Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Sustainable Development Goal 13, Climate Action.
This resource presents satellite data through GIS story maps, exploring how different models help scientists to study the urban heat island effect. The maps are well-cited, with all data from trusted sources such as USGS and NASA. This resource engages students in understanding the complexities of studying climatological phenomena and is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
My NASA Data
NASA offers petabytes of global Earth science data collected from satellites, but accessing these data in a traditional (or virtual) science classroom can be tricky. Since 2004, My NASA Data has supported students and teachers of grades 3-12 in analyzing and interpreting NASA mission data.
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 →
