Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of landslides. Use an engaging story or scenario, such as imagining a heavy downpour or rapid snowmelt on a steep mountain, to capture students' attention.
Go to the LessonLesson Plans
Landslides
Learning Objectives
- Understand the causes and effects of landslides, including how water and gravity contribute to their occurrence.
- Identify the impact of landslides on landscapes, including changes in the shape of mountains and hills.
- Recognize the potential dangers of landslides to human habitats and infrastructure, such as roads and houses.
- Explore the role of vegetation in preventing further weathering and erosion after a landslide.
Introduction and Hook
Discuss the role of gravity and water in causing landslides, setting the stage for deeper exploration.
Direct Instruction
Explain the causes and effects of landslides, emphasizing how water and gravity contribute to their occurrence.
Use visual aids to show the impact of landslides on landscapes, such as changes in the shape of mountains and hills.
Guided Exploration
Watch the video 'Severe Weather' to understand how extreme weather events can trigger landslides. This video provides visual demonstrations and real-world examples.
Engage students in a discussion about the potential dangers of landslides to human habitats and infrastructure.
Hands-On Activity
Conduct a model-building activity where students simulate a landslide using soil, rocks, and water to observe the effects of gravity and water.
Discuss the role of vegetation in preventing further weathering and erosion after a landslide.
Independent Practice
Assign the 'Properties of Soil' assessment to help students understand soil properties and their role in plant growth and erosion prevention.
Check for Understanding
Use formative assessment techniques, such as asking students to explain how landslides occur and their impact on the environment.
Encourage students to identify examples of landslides in their local area or from recent news stories.
Review and Reflection
Have students reflect on what they learned about landslides and their potential dangers to human habitats.
Discuss strategies for mitigating the effects of landslides and the importance of vegetation in erosion control.
Assessment and Extension
Administer the 'Comprehension – Erosion' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of erosion processes and their impact on landscapes.
Try the Quiz
Encourage students to explore further by researching historical landslides and their impacts on communities.
