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Hurricane Rating System

When comparing our strength to others, we usually consider our height and weight. But how are wind strengths and hurricanes compared? How are they measured and ranked?

As members of the Hurricane’s Rating System Team, your job will be to research the rating systems used to categorize tropical storms and hurricanes and to create a multimedia presentation that will communicate your findings to others in an interesting, engaging, and informative manner.

You will be using PowerPoint as your primary application software. You may want to consider an interactive approach and/or the use of video in your presentation. (HINT: There are some great interactive sites that your presentation could link to.) The presentation should help the public become aware of the rating systems and understand what the different ratings mean. In doing so, consider the members of your audience and what information will enhance their understanding of hurricanes in order to help residents make informed decisions when preparing for future hurricanes.

Team member roles are as follows: 

Think about how you might conduct your research. You can use some of the questions below, however you do not have to answer them all nor are you limited to only these questions.

• What is the Beaufort scale? From where does it get its name?
• What is the Saffir-Simpson scale? From where does it get its name?
• Why might it be important to know about these scales?
• What elements does this scale consider besides wind speed?
• What does this scale tell us about an approaching storm?
• What terms are associated with each number?
• How often might we see a Category 5 hurricane?
• Are storms ever upgraded or downgraded after the storm is over?

Things to know:

• The Red Cross board will visit us next week.  You will 4 days (90 minute periods each day) to work on this project.  Make sure you reserve time to practice presenting before the day of presentations.

• Under the section titled Resources, you will find the following:
  
  • Websites - You may search on your own or you may use the list of web resources provided under this section.
    
  • Project Checklist – Gives the requirements for a successful project and will help guide you through the project
    
  • PPT Quick Tips  - For help with Power Point
    
  • PPT Etiquette – Rules for creating a professional looking presentation
    
  • Citations Format – Format for websites, graphics, video clips
    
  • Assessing Website Credibility – To aid in assessing website credibility
• The criteria for your research and presentation are given in the rubric in the Evaluation section.  Make sure you review the rubric before you begin your project. 

It is strongly suggested that you read through the above resources before you begin on your project.