Lesson Plan

• Describe the characteristic shape, lava composition and eruption style of each major volcano type.
• Compare the principal hazards associated with stratovolcanoes, shield volcanoes, cinder cones, lava domes and fissure eruptions.
• Analyse how plate‑tectonic setting influences volcano type and related risks.
• Evaluate appropriate mitigation strategies for the different volcanic hazards.

• Projector and screen
• PowerPoint slides with cross‑sectional diagrams of each volcano type
• Fact‑sheet handouts for each volcano type
• World map showing tectonic settings
• Sample rock specimens (basalt, rhyolite)
• Comparison worksheet (table format)
• Exit‑ticket cards

Begin with a striking video clip of a recent volcanic eruption to capture interest. Ask students what they already know about why volcanoes look different and how those differences affect the hazards they pose. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to identify each volcano type, link it to its tectonic setting, and suggest suitable safety measures.

1. Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on basic volcano terminology (e.g., magma vs. lava, eruption styles).
2. Mini‑lecture with slides (15'): Systematic overview of the five volcano types, focusing on shape, lava viscosity, eruption style and typical hazards.
3. Group activity (15'): Teams use the fact sheets and worksheet to fill a comparison table and discuss the link to plate‑tectonic settings.
4. Whole‑class discussion (10'): Each group presents key findings; teacher highlights misconceptions and reinforces the viscosity‑eruption relationship.
5. Formative check (5'): Kahoot! quiz to gauge understanding before moving on.

Summarise the main differences between the volcano types and the hazards they generate. Students complete an exit ticket stating one mitigation strategy for a volcano type of their choice. For homework, assign a short case‑study report on a recent eruption, linking the observed impacts to the volcano’s characteristics.