Free 3rd Grade Volcanoes Lesson Plan (English)

Topic: Volcanoes

Objectives & Outcomes

• Students will be able to describe the characteristics of a volcano and explain how it erupts.

Materials

• Images of different types of volcanoes (e.g. stratovolcanoes, shield volcanoes, calderas)
• Handouts with definitions and characteristics of volcanoes
• Chart paper and markers
• Protective goggles
• Small model volcanoes

Warm-up

• Have students sit in a circle and play "pass the object." Pass a small, lightweight object around the circle, but make it a challenge by requiring participants to say a word that starts with the letter of the object they are holding (e.g. "Pass the pineapple and say a word that starts with P"). This is a great way to get students engaged and comfortable with speaking in front of the class.

Direct Instruction

• Show students pictures or videos of different types of volcanoes and ask them to identify the characteristics that make each type unique.
• Discuss the different types of eruptions (such as explosive, effusive, and sub-plinian) and how they are caused by different types of magma.
• Explain how volcanologists measure the size, intensity, and danger of an eruption using tools such as seismographs and gas detectors.
• Introduce the concept of volcanic hazards (such as ash, lava, and debris flows) and how they can be dangerous to people and property.

Guided Practice

• Divide students into small groups and give each group a different type of volcano to research.
• Have students use their books or Google to find pictures and videos of their volcano, as well as any information about its eruptions.
• Have students create a Venn diagram comparing and contrasting the characteristics of their chosen volcano types.
• Have students create a poster outlining the methods used by volcanologists to measure the size, intensity, and danger of volcanic eruptions.

Independent Practice

• Have students choose one volcano to research in more depth.
• Have students write a report about their chosen volcano, including information about its location, size, and eruptive history.
• Encourage students to include graphics and photos in their report.

Closure

• Have students share their reports with the class.
• Ask students to summarize what they learned about volcanoes and how they erupt.

Assessment

• Observe students during the volcano investigation and independent practice activities to assess their understanding of the concepts.
• Evaluate students' reports based on their ability to answer the questions posed and their use of accurate, descriptive language.