Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to understand the basic concepts of volcanoes and their formation.
Materials and Prep
- White paper
- Crayons or markers
- Scissors
No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.
Activities
- Draw and Cut Out a Volcano: Have the student draw a volcano shape on the white paper and cut it out.
- Color the Volcano: Using crayons or markers, have the student color the volcano to make it look more realistic.
- Make Lava: Ask the student to crumple a small piece of red or orange paper to represent lava.
- Erupt the Volcano: Place the volcano on a flat surface and have the student drop the crumpled paper into the top of the volcano, causing it to "erupt" and simulate a volcanic eruption.
Preschool Grade Talking Points
- "Volcanoes are big mountains that sometimes explode."
- "When a volcano erupts, it shoots out hot rocks, ash, and lava."
- "Lava is very hot and can melt things."
- "Volcanoes can be found on land and under the ocean."
- "Some volcanoes are dormant, which means they are not erupting right now, but they might erupt in the future."
- "Volcanoes can create new land and change the shape of the Earth."
- "Scientists who study volcanoes are called volcanologists."
- "It's important to stay away from erupting volcanoes because they can be dangerous."