Lesson Plan

Resources → Subject Notes → Geography → Notes
Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Geography
Lesson Topic: Earthquake and volcanic hazards: distribution, processes, impacts, management
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the global distribution patterns of earthquakes and volcanoes.
  • Explain the physical processes that generate seismic and volcanic hazards.
  • Analyse the social, economic and environmental impacts of these hazards.
  • Evaluate risk‑reduction and management strategies for earthquake‑ and volcanic‑prone regions.
  • Compare monitoring techniques and early‑warning systems for both hazards.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • World plate‑boundary map (digital or printed)
  • Printed worksheets with distribution tables and process questions
  • Short videos of seismic waves and volcanic eruptions
  • GIS/hazard‑mapping software (or online mapping tool)
  • Student notebooks and pens
 Introduction:
Begin with a striking video clip of a recent earthquake and volcanic eruption to capture interest. Ask students what they already know about why these hazards occur in certain parts of the world. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to map the hazards, describe the underlying processes and propose management actions.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5') – quick mind‑map on “What causes earthquakes and volcanoes?” displayed on the board.
  2. Mini‑lecture (15') – present distribution maps and plate‑boundary settings using the projector.
  3. Process stations (20') – small groups rotate through three stations (elastic rebound & seismic waves, magma generation & ascent, eruption styles) with short videos and worksheet tasks.
  4. Impact analysis (10') – whole‑class discussion comparing case studies (e.g., 2011 Japan earthquake, 2010 Iceland eruption) using impact tables.
  5. Management strategies (10') – groups design a hazard‑mitigation plan for a given region and present key actions.
  6. Exit ticket (5') – students write one measurable action they could take to reduce risk in their local area.
Conclusion:
Summarise how distribution, processes and impacts are linked and why effective management depends on accurate monitoring. Collect the exit tickets as a quick retrieval check and assign homework: research a recent earthquake or volcanic event and prepare a one‑page risk‑reduction brief.