This article tells a delightful story and shows students that the development of science needs a vast range of personalities - you don’t have to conform to the geeky stereotype. It also reveals the impressive power of observation used by Howard to develop his classification. Such classification is crucial for developing scientific understanding. Students can look at stories in which classification led to a deeper understanding about what was going on, such as the development of the periodic table, or advances in particle physics.

The fact that classification encompassed the changing nature of clouds and the way in which this rebounded on society also allow discussion within scientific enquiry about how science is influenced by, and influences, society as a whole. Other examples in this context are the Copernican revolution and the emergence of quantum theory.

In addition to its role in discussing the nature of science, meteorology is a fascinating way to tackle some basic physics - for example, looking at glories and Brocken spectres. You can find wonderful images on the web to inspire your students - try www.sundog.clara.co.ukdropletsglobrock.htm.