TRC: Mapping Interactions Between Heat, Plants, and Water

In this Teacher / Researcher Collaborative (TRC) event, we learned from Dr. Morgan Levy and Zhuohan Fang at Scripps Oceanography on a new interactive map that shows the relationship between temperature, plants, and water at high resolution anywhere in the Western United States. This TRC was supported by the SoCal Heat Hub, which includes resources shared in this blog post. Click the video below to watch the recorded event and look below for the key resources that were shared. Also, if you missed this one, please click here to sign up for our next TRC event.

Goals from this TRC

• Learn the science on plants, heat, and water through satellite data.

• Learn how to use the Ecohydrology and Heat Explorer (EHE)

• Connect with other teachers and form plans on how to engage your students with how to explore the data.

Resource and Link	Description
Researcher Presentation Slides PDF Version	Includes all the content and figures from the research presentation.
Ecohydrology and Heat Explorer (EHE)	The interaction web map that allows you to explore Land Surface Temperatures, NDVI, and Evapotranspiration across the Western United States.
Short Explainer Video on how to use the EHE interactive map	Short video showing how to get started with the interactive map. Please watch the full research presentation above for a more detailed explanation.
Analyzing and Interpreting Data Routine	This routine and set of curriculum resources (i.e., handouts and slides) can be used with the EHE interactive map to explore the data on Land Surface Temperatures and NDVI.
High School Chemistry Unit that uses Land Surface Temperatures and NDVI as the anchoring phenomenon. This unit is completed, but still being revised throughout 24/25.	These slides provide a step-by-step guide for educators to lead their students through the data analysis process. From identifying data features to interpreting relationships, each slide offers clear instructions and prompts.
5th Grade Cooler Communities Unit that uses Land Surface Temperatures and NDVI as the anchoring phenomenon. This unit is completed, but still being revised throughout 24/25.	This template helps students structure their initial observations and interpretations of data. It encourages them to notice features, describe the purpose of the data, and begin identifying patterns.  To support teachers in implementing this routine, we've included an example organizer filled with sample responses. This demonstrates how students might engage with real-world data about temperature variations across different locations in San Diego.