K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Tsunamis

Learning Objectives

  • Understand what a tsunami is and how it forms.
  • Identify the causes of tsunamis, such as underwater earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
  • Recognize the potential impact of tsunamis on human structures and the environment.
  • Explain the importance of tsunami warnings and the necessary safety actions to take.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of tsunamis as giant ocean waves that can move onto land, altering the Earth's surface rapidly.

Go to the Lesson

Engage students with a brief discussion on their prior knowledge of natural disasters, focusing on tsunamis and their impact.

Direct Instruction

Explain the formation of tsunamis, highlighting causes such as underwater earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Use the 'Severe Weather' video to illustrate how tsunamis fit into the broader category of severe weather events and their potential dangers.

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Guided Exploration

Facilitate a class discussion on the impact of tsunamis on human structures and the environment, using real-world examples.

Explore the importance of tsunami warnings and necessary safety actions with students, emphasizing the role of scientists in monitoring and predicting tsunamis.

Hands-On Activity

Engage students in a hands-on activity where they create a simple model to simulate a tsunami using a shallow tray of water and a small object to represent land.

Use the 'Make a Model of a Volcano' assessment to draw parallels between volcanic eruptions and tsunami formation, enhancing understanding through hands-on learning.

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Independent Practice

Assign students to research a recent tsunami event and write a brief report on its causes, impact, and the response to the disaster.

Check for Understanding

Conduct a class quiz to assess students' understanding of tsunami formation, causes, and impacts.

Try the Quiz

Review and Reflection

Have students reflect on what they have learned about tsunamis and discuss how this knowledge can be applied to real-world scenarios.

Assessment and Extension

Use the 'Rapid Changes to the Earth’s Surface' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of natural disasters, including tsunamis, and their impact on the environment.

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Encourage students to explore further by designing a solution to mitigate tsunami damage, using the 'Preventing Floods' assessment as a guide for creative problem-solving.

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