Planet Earth

What is the Earth made of? How do volcanoes erupt? What makes the Earth's crust fold and snap?

Age: This show can be tailored for all age ranges, but is best for years 2-6
Program Length: 30-45 minutes
 

Show Synopsis

The show starts with everyone's favourite demonstration - a bicarb-vinegar volcano, but then we find out that this is not the way a real volcano erupts.  After making a chocolate and custard model of the Earth, looking at a lava lamp and some hot water convection currents, students will come to a deeper understanding of how the Earth works.  We finish with a discussion of the Newcastle Earthquake and examining a range of volcanic and intrusive rocks.

NSW Curriculum Links

ST2-1VA, ST3-1VA, ST2-3VA, ST3-3VA, ST3- 3VA, ST2-9ES, ST3-9ES, ST2-11LW, ST3-11LW, ST2-8ES, ST3-8ES

Australian Curriculum Links

  • Earth’s surface changes over time as a result of natural processes and human activity (ACSU075)
  • Sudden geological changes or extreme weather conditions can affect Earth’s surface (ACSU096)
  • Earth’s surface changes over time as a result of natural processes and human activity (ACSSU075)
  • Science involves asking questions about, and describing changes in, objects and events (ACSHE034)
  • Living things, including plants and animals, depend on each other and the environment to survive (ACSSU073)
  • Forces can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance (ACSSU076)
  • Compare data with predictions and use as evidence in developing explanations (ACSIS218)
  • Science involves making predictions and describing patterns and relationships (ACSHE061)

Primary Connections links

  • Beneath our feet, Earthquake Explorers