Earth Science

On Thursday, the second grade class continued their study of Earth science with a chapter on earthquakes and volcanoes. We supplemented our understanding of earthquakes with a discussion of the recent tragedy on Haiti. The kids talked about how important it is for buildings and bridges to be built securely in the case of this natural disaster. Afterwards, the second graders discussed volcanoes and lava. Most were amazed to learn that lava is actually melted rock and after lava cools down it becomes rock again. We also talked about how many islands were originally made from underwater volcanoes. Ask your child which of our fifty states was once an underwater volcano! Last, the students did an activity where they modeled a volcano out of clay and watched an eruption. Then, we discussed the differences between our model volcano and a real volcano. This is a fun activity that can be done at home as well.

How to Make a Model of a Volcano
Materials:
Clay
Container
Baking Soda
Dish Washing Soap
Vinegar
Stirrer
Red Food Coloring
The first step is to mold the clay around a container (we used a small paper cup) in the shape of a volcano. Then place your volcano in a tin pan in order to catch the 'lava.' After the model is made, pour 1 tbsp. baking soda into the container and mix it with 1 tbsp. dish washing soap. Put in a few drops of red food coloring and mix. Last, fill the rest of the container with vinegar (about 1/4 cup). Watch your volcano erupt!