Catastrophic Events

Students begin with use of a globe to assess geological and atmospheric patterns on the earth that may be related to storms, earthquakes, volcanoes, and other catastrophic events.

Then, students investigate the causes and effects of thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. They also analyze methods of monitoring and forecasting these events.

Concepts include local and global heating, convection in the air, the water cycle and cloud formation, air pressure, and weather maps.

The second part of the unit focuses on wave motion, earthquake data, and the factors that cause earthquakes. Plate motion and the structure of the earth are introduced in the context of plate tectonics. The section concludes with students designing and building model structures that can reduce the risks associated with earthquakes.

In the last section, students simulate the movement and effects of magma and lava on land formation, investigate viscosity and crystallization, and examine igneous rocks and volcanic ash. The activity "Comparing Catastrophic Events" and the culminating activity on the risks associated with natural hazards integrates the concepts of the module.

Trainer Tips:

• Oil the convection tube spout to aid in getting the tubing on and off

Catastrophic Events Lesson Sequence (pdf)

Literacy / Book Lists

Teacher Recommended Resources

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Sponsorship Opportunity

Sponsor the Catastrophic Events unit! To learn about sponsoring a unit and all the other giving opportunities at The Einstein Project, please contact us at 920-884-8800 or einstein@einsteinproject.org.

What are people saying about the Catastrophic Events Einstein science unit?

"Very hands-on, specific, designed to engage students through inquiry-based learning.  Great kit." 
-- Patrick Wallace, Grade 7-8 teacher at Aldo Leopold Community School, Green Bay, Wisconsin