Teachers' notes
Volcanoes
Aims:
- To know about the different organisational features of information texts and to be able to find information effectively.
- To write a non narrative text.
- To group related material into paragraphs under subheadings.
- To know how volcanoes are formed and some of the effects they can have on the landscape and people.
Age group 7–9
- England and Wales
Year 3/Year 4 - Scotland
Year P4/Year P5 - Northern Ireland
Year 4/Year 5
Literacy skills:
Read and understand an information text. Identify the different ways the writer has signposted how to find information. Plan how to research and record more information about volcanoes.
Curriculum links:
- Geography – England and Wales
- Social studies, People, place and environment– Northern Ireland
- The World around us, Geography – Scotland
Content:
- Whiteboard: Read the text which includes the cause and effect of volcanoes and Amazing Volcano Facts. Highlight the organisational features e.g. title, subheadings and bullet points. Make notes about key questions in order to carry out further research.
- Activity sheet: Prepare a fact sheet all about volcanoes for a friend. Gather information and write under the most appropriate subheading. Include an illustration.
- Extension: Write an eyewitness account about a volcano erupting. Include descriptions of the colours, smells and noises as the lava pours down the hillside.
Suggestions for questions:
- Activate prior knowledge: Has anyone seen (a picture) of a volcano? Have you ever wondered why they erupt?
- Reflect on learning: What do you now know about volcanoes? What do you think it might be like to live near a volcano?
- Stimulate further research: What did you decide you would like to find out about volcanoes? Where are you going to look for the information? Can you find out where the nearest volcano to where we live is located?