What causes a volcano? - Teacher notes

When teaching about volcanoes, it's beneficial to start with a vocabulary-building exercise, gathering new geographical terms that will be used throughout the lesson. Teachers should gauge what the pupils already know about volcanoes and what additional information they are curious to learn. The lesson plan includes providing students with detailed explanations about the causes of volcanoes, supported by selected educational resources for further exploration. Students are then tasked with listing ten facts they already know about volcanoes, followed by ten new facts they have learned through the lesson.

As a practical application of their newfound knowledge, pupils use a world map to identify the locations of some of the world's most renowned volcanoes. The lesson also delves into the significant effects of volcanic eruptions on human life and the environment. Through watching recommended video content, students examine both the destructive impact of volcanic eruptions and the subsequent fertility of the soil in the aftermath. To encapsulate their understanding, pupils complete an activity sheet that weighs the pros and cons of volcanic activity, fostering a comprehensive view of the topic. This holistic approach not only teaches the scientific aspects of volcanoes but also their social and environmental implications.