Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Geography
Lesson Topic: Physical factors and human factors of vulnerability to volcanic hazards and impacts: speed, size, frequency, extent of the eruption, population density, infrastructure, economic development
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how eruption speed, size, frequency, and extent affect hazard exposure.
  • Analyse how population density, infrastructure quality, and economic development influence vulnerability.
  • Apply a simple vulnerability index to compare different volcanic scenarios.
  • Evaluate mitigation strategies linked to physical and human factors.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint presentation with diagrams and tables
  • Handout summarising key factors and the vulnerability index
  • Case‑study worksheets (Pinatubo, Etna, Kilauea)
  • Interactive online mapping tool (e.g., Google Earth)
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a striking image of Mount Pinatubo’s ash cloud to capture interest. Ask students what they already know about why some eruptions cause more damage than others. Explain that today they will explore both physical and human factors that shape vulnerability and will be able to assess risk using a simple index.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list factors they think affect volcanic damage on sticky notes.
  2. Mini‑lecture (15’) – Present physical factors (speed, size, frequency, extent) with diagrams.
  3. Group activity (20’) – Using the handout, calculate the vulnerability index for a given eruption scenario.
  4. Case‑study analysis (15’) – Teams compare Pinatubo, Etna, Kilauea and identify which factors drove outcomes.
  5. Whole‑class discussion (10’) – Share findings, link to mitigation strategies.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick quiz (exit ticket) with three short questions.
Conclusion:
Summarise that vulnerability is the product of eruption characteristics and societal context. Students submit an exit ticket stating one physical and one human factor that most influences risk. Assign homework to research a recent volcanic event and produce a one‑page vulnerability assessment.