There are many different types of clouds and they are categorized using a system based on where they are in the atmosphere. This system of classification is similar to the Linnaean taxonomy used to classify living things, where each word refers to a different component. For example, clouds with nimbo or nimbus refer to clouds that produce precipitation. Clouds with strato or stratus in the name normally form in layers.
In this activity, students will create a chat that identifies and illustrates different types of clouds and their altitude. This activity can be scaffolded, where the images of the clouds are provided and students are asked to label them. You can also encourage students to go outside and identify the different types of clouds and upload photos of any they take.
To find out more about cloud types, take a look at the International Cloud Atlas from the World Meteorological Organization.
Cirrus - A high, atmospheric detached cloud characterized by thin hairlike strands. The name comes from the Latin word cirrus, meaning “hair”.
Cirrocumulus - Characterized by thin white sheets made of regularly arranged grains or ripples.
Cirrostratus - Characterized by a smooth, transparent sheet covering part or all of the sky. This cloud type can cause a halo around the Sun.
Altocumulus - Characterized by patches and sheets formed from rounded masses, layers, or rolls. They can be diffuse, or made of fibers.
Altostratus - Greyish or bluish sheets cover all or part of the sky. Unlike Cirrostratus, this cloud type does not cause a halo to form around the Sun.
Nimbostratus - Grey cloud layer associated with rainfall or snowfall. The layer of cloud is normally thick enough to block out the Sun.
Stratocumulus - Grey or white patches and layers formed by groups of rounded masses. Stratocumulus clouds are normally non-fibrous.
Cumulus - Detached, fluffy clouds with clearly defined edges. The bases of these clouds are flat and gray, while the tops form brilliant white bulges that can look like cauliflower.
Stratus - A low, smooth sheet of grey cloud often associated with precipitation. These clouds often block the Sun.
Cumulonimbus - These cloud types have a large vertical height that form huge mountains. Most of these clouds are flat and spread out at the top. They are sometimes known as the thunderstorm cloud.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Identify and describe the different types of clouds and classify them by altitude.
Engage students by using local weather reports or weather apps to observe and record current cloud types in your area. This adds real-world context, helps students make connections, and encourages them to practice observation skills.
Have students keep a daily or weekly journal where they draw or photograph clouds they see and label their types. Journaling builds consistency and helps students track weather patterns over time.
Demonstrate using a cloud classification chart to match real sky observations with cloud types. Show students how to check altitude, shape, and color for more accurate identification.
Teach students to use their cloud observations to predict upcoming weather. For example, spotting nimbostratus or cumulonimbus clouds can signal rain or storms, connecting science to everyday life.
Invite students to share their observations and predictions with classmates. Discussing findings builds communication skills and reinforces understanding of cloud types and weather patterns.
Clouds are classified by their appearance and altitude in the sky. The main types include cirrus, cumulus, stratus, and nimbus, with further variations like cirrostratus or altocumulus. Classification terms describe their shape and weather effects, such as nimbus indicating precipitation and stratus meaning layered clouds.
Students can identify clouds by observing their shape, color, and height in the sky. Using a cloud chart or images, they can match what they see to categories like fluffy cumulus or wispy cirrus. Going outside and taking photos is a hands-on way to practice cloud identification.
High altitude clouds (e.g., cirrus) form above 20,000 feet and often appear thin and wispy. Middle altitude clouds (e.g., altostratus) are found between 6,500 and 20,000 feet and look more layered or patchy. Low altitude clouds (e.g., stratus, cumulus) form below 6,500 feet and are usually denser and closer to the ground.
Clouds with "nimbus" in their name, like nimbostratus or cumulonimbus, typically produce rain or snow because they contain enough moisture and thickness to support precipitation. Other clouds, like cirrus or cumulus, are usually too thin or dry to cause rainfall.
A great activity is making a cloud classification chart. Have students sort images of different clouds by altitude (high, mid, low) and label each type. They can also go outside to observe clouds and upload photos for discussion, making learning interactive and visual.