Air Pressure

This activity is slightly modified from the original one I found about air pressure.  

After reading the text we review the concept::   as altitude decreases, air pressure increases.  We do this by discussing the difference between Mt. Everest, and the beach which is at sea level.  To help students see air, we make a model.  The column of air at the top of the mountain is less dense.  There is less pressure.

As our traveler goes down the mountain (altitude decreases) he gains more air pressure.  For this we add a bag of gravel.  The column of air is becoming more dense.  

We continue to add, until he is at sea level (and feeling it)!

This activity helps students understand air pressure using materials to represent the air.  When our discussion is complete, students record their ideas in their notebook.