Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic concept of volcanoes and how they work.

Materials and Prep

• Construction paper
• Scissors
• Glue
• Crayons or markers

No prior knowledge or preparation is required for this lesson.

Activities

1. Create a Volcano Model

Using the construction paper, scissors, and glue, create a model of a volcano. Cut out a large cone shape from the construction paper to represent the volcano. Then, cut out a smaller circle from a different color of construction paper to serve as the volcano's crater. Glue the smaller circle onto the top of the cone shape to complete the model.

2. Decorate the Volcano

Use crayons or markers to decorate your volcano model. You can add colors to represent lava, rocks, and vegetation around the volcano.

3. Exploring Volcanic Eruptions

Discuss with your parent or teacher how volcanoes erupt and release lava and gases. Use your imagination to pretend that your volcano model is erupting. You can make sound effects and describe what is happening during the eruption.

Preschool Grade Talking Points

• "A volcano is a mountain that can sometimes explode."
• "Volcanoes have a big hole at the top called a crater."
• "When a volcano erupts, it can shoot out hot lava and smoke."
• "Lava is very hot melted rock that flows down the sides of a volcano."
• "Volcanoes can also release gases that come from inside the Earth."
• "Sometimes, volcanoes can make loud noises and shake the ground."
• "Volcanoes can be found in different parts of the world."
• "It is important to stay away from volcanoes because they can be dangerous."