Grand Junction, Colorado, is a city that sits in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with its stunning vistas, natural landmarks, and unique geography. Elevation, in particular, is an important aspect of the area’s natural features. As a teacher, it’s important to teach children about the elevation of Grand Junction, Colorado, and its significance.
What is Elevation?
In simple terms, elevation refers to the height of a place above sea level. In the case of Grand Junction, its elevation is approximately 4,500 feet. To put it into perspective, the tallest mountain peak in Colorado, Mount Elbert, has an elevation of 14,440 feet. The city’s altitude may be relatively low compared to other mountain towns in Colorado, but it still plays a critical role in the region’s climate, landscape, and recreational opportunities.
Why is Elevation Important?
The elevation of Grand Junction is significant for several reasons. Firstly, because it sits at a higher altitude, it has lower atmospheric pressure. This means the air is thinner and has less oxygen than at sea level, which can cause breathing problems for some people. Additionally, it means that weather conditions in the region can be extreme, with colder temperatures, more intense sun rays, and a lower humidity level than other areas.
Secondly, the elevation of Grand Junction affects the vegetation that grows in the region. Plants that thrive at lower altitudes can’t survive the harsher conditions of the local climate, which means that the flora in the area is unique to this altitude range. This unique vegetation, including juniper and pinyon pine trees, is a hallmark of the area’s natural landscape.
Finally, because of its topography, Grand Junction offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking, mountain biking, and skiing are just a few of the many activities enthusiasts can enjoy in the region. Grand Junction’s elevation is why outdoor enthusiasts flock to the area to enjoy the scenery and activities.
How to Teach Children about Elevation
There are many creative and engaging ways to teach children about the elevation of Grand Junction. For grade-school children, you can grab a map and show the difference between local towns and how the elevation rises as you move closer to the mountains.
Teach kids about the effects of altitude on the human body, explaining how the lower atmospheric pressure affects breathing and activity levels. Engage children in discussions about how elevation affects the local climate, and how plants and animals in the region have adapted to these conditions.
Activities such as hiking and exploring the area’s natural scenery can help kids grasp the significance of elevation. They might wonder aloud why they become out of breath more quickly or why it’s colder in the mountains. These moments provide opportunities for teachers to explain how the elevation of the area affects everything from the weather to their bodies.
