Inferencing
The school announcements say, "The buses will be departing early today due to icy roads.". You can infer that...
There is snow/ice on the ground and it is important students get home before the roads get worse.
What should you put on first before going outside into cold, windy weather?
You should put on a hat/coat or other warm base layer.
What does "bundle up" mean? Give a quick example.
"Bundle up" means to put on several warm layers (example: coat, hat, gloves).
Ask a question to start a winter conversation with a classmate about snow days.
"What did you do on the snow day last week?"
Describe the sound of snow crunching under boots in one sentence.
"It makes a soft, crunchy sound like tiny crackles with each step."
You see a person putting on mittens, a scarf, and waterproof boots before leaving the house. Infer two activities they might be planning for outside
Sledding, making a snowman/playing in the snow
Where can you find reliable information about school closures during heavy snow?
You can find reliable information about school closures at the school website, district phone line, local news stations, or official social media from school/district.
Explain "black ice" and why it is dangerous.
"Black ice" is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice on roads/paths; it's dangerous because drivers and walkers may not see it and can slip.
Give a friendly follow-up question you could ask after someone tells you they like skiing.
"What's your favorite part about skiing?" or "How did you learn to ski?"
Describe how an icy branch looks and what might happen if heavy snow fills it
An icy branch looks shiny and heavy; if snow piles up it may bend or snap under the weight
A photo shows a bird pecking at seed left on a deck and an empty birdbath with a thin layer of ice. You can infer that..
The weather is at or below freezing
When planning a safe winter walk, what time of day is usually safer and why?
Daytime is usually safer due to better visibility and slightly warmer temps; avoid early morning/late night when ice forms.
Define "wind chill" and describe how it affects how cold we feel.
"Wind chill" is how cold it feels due to wind removing heat from the body
Provide two short phrases to keep a conversation going when someone is telling a story about sledding.
"Wow, tell me more about that!" and "Would you go sledding again at that place?"
Antonym: hot
A student brings two sweaters and a raincoat to school on the same day the forecast said "snow possible." Infer why the student is packing both types of clothing.
Sweaters provide warmth indoors; raincoat protects from wet snow or slush—layering and waterproofing address variable different weather conditions.
Why might someone choose to wear heavy snow boots over regular shoes when walking on snowy sidewalks?
They might choose boots because they keep feet warmer, provide better traction when walking on ice, and often are waterproof which reduces wetness and cold.
Explain "hypothermia" and name three signs someone might show. Describe one immediate step to help while waiting for adult/medical help.
"Hypothermia" is when body temperature falls too low; Signs include: intense shivering, confusion, slurred speech. For an immediate step, you can move the person to a warm place, cover with blankets and seek adult/medical help.
Student A wants to join Student B and friends making snow forts. Write what Student A says to ask to join and how Student B replies to include them respectfully.
Student A: "Hi—your forts look awesome. Can I help build one with you?"
Student B: "Sure! We can use another helper. You can stack snow here—thanks for asking!"
Compare and describe three differences between a blizzard and a light snow shower.
Blizzard: very low visibility, strong winds, dangerous travel; stay indoors
Light snow: higher visibility, little wind, can travel but be safe
A family loads canned food, extra blankets, and a battery-powered radio into their car after hearing a long-term winter storm forecast. Infer the conditions they expect and explain why each item might be useful.
The family is expecting flooding from melting, power outages, and travel disruptions.
How would you respond if a friend asks, "Why are you shivering?" Provide a clear explanation and a suggestion to help them feel warmer.
Example response: "You're shivering because your body is trying to make heat when it's cold. Try putting on another layer, moving to a warm place, or drinking something warm."
Define "road closure" in the context of a winter storm
"Road closure" means a road is legally blocked and unsuitable for travel due to winter weather conditions.
Create a phrase on how to politely disagree with a friend who thinks it's OK to walk on thin ice.
"I don't feel safe with that—ice can be thin. Let's check with an adult or stay on the cleared path instead."
Describe what it is like to prepare for a winter field trip. Describe what students should wear and three safety rules to follow while outside.
Students should wear layers, a hat, warm waterproof boots, gloves, and bring a snack/water.
Rules: stay on the path, stay with the group, tell an adult if cold or wet.