Students will
* read about and discuss the theory of plate tectonics;
* map the regions of the United States that are most susceptible to earthquakes and those that have volcanoes;
* list the states that lie on plate boundaries;
* look at a population density map and explain if people avoid living in areas at high risk for earthquakes and volcanoes; and
* research specific volcanoes or earthquake zones and write pretend letters to residents of these areas describing the risks.
This lesson teaches students some of the basics of earthquakes and volcanoes. It also asks them to think about how people living in cities and suburbs must plan ahead by constructing sturdy buildings and preparing their homes and themselves for the possibility of a natural disaster. Students will therefore be introduced to some basic concepts of physical geography, as well as some of the ways in which the physical environment affects people’s lives.
Begin the lesson by showing the class a standard physical map of the world. Tell students to look closely at the continents. Ask if they think the continents always looked as they do on the map, or if they have changed shape or location throughout Earth’s history. Write their ideas on a large sheet of paper or on the board.
Students will explore websites for the Winter Olympics and be able to use information found on the websites to complete specific tasks related to Olympic symbols. Students will be able to use Olympic vocabulary words to complete an online dictionary quiz. Students will be able to use clues to complete an online crossword puzzle. Students will be able to create a graphic organizer to be used for describing an Olympic event. Students will use the graphic organizer and Olympic websites to research topics. Students will be able to create a writing piece on a specific Olympic event. Students will be able to use internet links to navigate to and participate in fun online activities.
In this lesson, students learn about the history of the Olympic Games, research one set of summer or winter Olympic Games hosted by a specific city, and then create a brochure in Microsoft Office Publisher.
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