What causes a volcano? - Presentation

The educational material provides a comprehensive exploration into the formation of mountains and the causes behind natural phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and particularly volcanoes. The lesson begins by encouraging students to gather new geographical terminology and to reflect on their existing knowledge about volcanoes, setting the stage for further learning. The teacher is advised to present information about the causes of volcanoes, possibly including digital resources for students to examine. Pupils are then tasked with listing facts they already know about volcanoes and adding new information they've learned. The curriculum also includes a practical exercise where students use a world map to mark the locations of notable volcanoes and consider the impact these geological features have on human lives, including the catastrophic effects of eruptions and the beneficial aspects such as soil enrichment.

To delve deeper into the mechanics of volcanic eruptions, the content draws an analogy between a covered pot of chilli on a stove and the buildup of magma and gases beneath the Earth's crust. This buildup, caused by the movement of tectonic plates, can lead to explosive volcanic eruptions through vents in the Earth's surface. The material highlights the destructive power of volcanoes, which can release lava, rocks, toxic gases, and ash with devastating force, while also acknowledging the fertile soil and new habitats created by volcanic activity. Students are encouraged to weigh the pros and cons of volcanoes, acknowledging both their potential for destruction and their role in supporting life and ecosystems. The educational content aims to foster a balanced understanding of volcanoes as a formidable yet essential part of Earth's dynamic system.