Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Geography
Lesson Topic: 2.1 Earthquakes and volcanoes: Describe causes, effects and responses to tectonic hazards.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the tectonic processes that cause earthquakes and volcanoes.
  • Explain the primary and secondary effects of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions on people and the environment.
  • Evaluate the main monitoring, preparedness and mitigation strategies used to reduce risk from tectonic hazards.
  • Compare the predictability and mitigation approaches for earthquakes versus volcanoes.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • World map or digital globe showing plate boundaries
  • Diagrams of subduction zones and the Ring of Fire (printed or digital)
  • Worksheets with case‑study questions on earthquake and volcano impacts
  • Seismograph and volcano‑monitoring video clips
  • Sticky notes or cards for group brainstorming
 Introduction:
Begin with a short, dramatic video of the 2011 Japan earthquake and the eruption of Mount Etna to capture interest. Ask students what they already know about why the ground shakes or lava erupts, linking to previous lessons on plate tectonics. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe causes, effects and appropriate responses to these hazards.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Quick think‑pair‑share on recent tectonic events.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Review plate boundaries and how they generate earthquakes and volcanoes, using the world map and diagrams.
  3. Interactive activity (15'): Groups analyse case studies (San Andreas fault earthquake, Hawaiian volcano) and fill a comparison chart.
  4. Monitoring demo (10'): Watch short videos of seismographs and volcanic gas sensors; discuss early‑warning systems.
  5. Mitigation brainstorm (10'): Each group lists three mitigation measures for earthquakes or volcanoes; share and create a class poster.
  6. Check for understanding (5'): Kahoot quiz or exit ticket with two short questions.
  7. Wrap‑up (5'): Teacher summarises key points and assigns homework.
Conclusion:
Summarise how tectonic plate movements drive both earthquakes and volcanoes and why understanding their effects guides preparedness. Students complete an exit ticket identifying one response strategy for each hazard. For homework, they research a recent tectonic event and write a brief report on its impacts and the mitigation measures taken.