Lesson Plan

• Describe the main types of mass movements and their characteristic features.
• Explain the predisposing and triggering factors that lead to slope failure.
• Analyse the impacts of mass‑movement hazards on people, infrastructure and the environment.
• Evaluate common management and mitigation strategies, including monitoring and early‑warning systems.
• Apply knowledge to assess a real‑world case study and propose appropriate risk‑reduction measures.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Slide presentation with diagrams and case‑study images
• Printed worksheet with classification table and short questions
• Physical model of a slope (optional) for demonstration
• Access to online GIS/remote‑sensing examples
• Markers and chart paper for group brainstorming

Begin with a striking video clip of a recent landslide to capture interest. Ask students what they already know about why slopes fail, linking to previous lessons on weathering and erosion. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify types, causes and effective management of mass‑movement hazards.

1. Do‑now (5’) – Quick recall quiz on natural hazards; students write one example of a mass movement.
2. Teacher input (15’) – Present definitions, classification table (type, material, mode, speed) using slides.
3. Guided activity (15’) – Small groups analyse a case study (e.g., Oso, WA) to identify type, triggers, impacts; complete worksheet.
4. Whole‑class debrief (10’) – Groups share findings; teacher highlights management strategies.
5. Practical demonstration (10’) – Use slope model to show drainage and vegetation mitigation; discuss factor of safety.
6. Monitoring & early‑warning discussion (10’) – Review sensors, remote‑sensing tools; brainstorm a community warning plan.
7. Exit ticket (5’) – Students write one management measure they would prioritize for a given scenario.

Summarise how the type, causes and impacts of mass movements dictate the choice of mitigation measures. Collect exit tickets to check understanding and assign a short homework: research a recent mass‑movement event and suggest two additional management actions.