Step 1

13/05/22 I can understand about the conditions on Earth.

This week, we looked at our Planet Earth in order for us to understand the foundations for why natural disasters happen. We explored the different layers of the Earth, starting with the soils and then moving through from the Earth's crust, into the mantle then to the core. We learnt about the components of each layer and how incredibly hot it gets! To show our understanding of the layers, we had fun creating a cross-section model in jars, using different materials to represent each level. Uploading a photo of this, we then annotated the model to share information each layer, using PicCollage.

Next, we looked at the difference between 'weather' and 'climate' and how this changes across the globe. We saw how places near the equator experience differences and similarities to the poles and how this all linked to the position and distance of the sun. To find out more about extreme conditions, we went on a scavenger hunt! Placed in bushes and hanging from trees, we discovered facts and had to match them to the questions on our sheets by identifying key words and thinking about what the question was enquiring about. Using our collaboration skills, we were able to discover fascinating things such as where and when the hottest and coldest temperatures were recorded, what 'desertification' means and where it happens, as well as the speed of an avalanche and which locations have 6 months of light and 6 months of darkness!

Step 1

20/05/22 I can research and understand extreme weather.

We began the week with exploring the water cycle on our Planet Earth and how this can impact extreme weather. Collaborating to create versions of the cycle and explaining each of the different stages allowed us to consolidate key vocabulary that will help us explain different phenomena with the weather through our project.

Following this, we started by distinguishing the difference between weather and extreme weather and how impacts Earth's hydrosphere, geosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. Then we started to look into examples of different extreme weather conditions. Using our roleplay skills, we used to drama to understand the different components involved during a thunder and lightning storm, as well as demonstrating the impact of tropical storms. Next, we defined the differences between hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons. We discussed how hail storms, flooding, blizzards and tornadoes occur and the impact they have had in different locations across the globe.

With lots of new knowledge, we used our digital skills to further research and present descriptions of the different extreme weather types and select images to illustrate them. Fascinating stuff!

Step 1 & 2

I can understand about the tectonic plates and their influence on Earth's conditions.

This week, we explored the changing of the Earth's crust over millions of years. It was amazing to see the supercontinent of 'Pangea' change over time and form the continents we know today and explore the work of Alfred Wegener. Recognising that the crust is made of tectonic plates, we looked at why the plates move and what the Earth might look like in millions of years time. To understand where the plate boundaries are and their names, we completed labelled jigsaw plate maps, using atlases to locate countries and continents.

Following on from this, we identified 'The Ring of Fire' area in the Pacific Ocean and researched how this is a hot spot for earthquakes and volcanoes because of the movement of the plates. We then looked over the world for the location of famous volcanoes, using different maps in the atlas to support us with finding and describing their locations.

Next, we are looking forward to researching the inner workings of volcanoes and earthquakes and their historical impact through the years.

Step 1 & 2

10/06 I can explore how and where volcanoes and earthquakes happen

This week, we learnt about the three different stages of a volcano's lifecycle (active, dormant and extinct) and explored how volcanoes began. Our geographical vocabulary grew and grew as we came across words such as: conduit, crater and fumarole and we applied this to annotate our magnificent cross-sections of volcanoes.

Building on our knowledge of tectonic plates from previous sessions, we discussed the differences between the divergent, convergent and conservative plate boundaries and the impact they have with earthquakes and/or volcanoes. With this in mind, we found out about why earthquakes happen and what this looks like at plate boundaries across the globe.

Looking at images from earthquake events in the past, we described the impact it has on human settlements and we even practised what to do to be prepared, should we ever be somewhere when an earthquake strikes.

Finishing the week off, we explored the different tools that are used to measure earthquakes: the Mercalli Scale and the Richter Scale.

Next we will locate well known earthquakes, compare their impact and create a timeline to show the history of earthquakes.

Step 1 & 2

17/06 I can explore tsunamis.

I can research and order significant natural disaster events through time.

This week, we began by investigating the hot spots in the world that have suffered from serious earthquakes. We love engaging with atlases to locate the cities and countries that have experienced earthquakes throughout history and some of us were even able to represent the magnitude measured on the Richter Scale through a clever colour code! It was very clear to see that our knowledge of the approximate locations of continents, countries and some cities is developing with such confidence.

Next, we moved onto finding about treacherous tsunamis. We watched authentic news broadcast about the recent tsunami in Tonga to get an honest insight into the experience and then looked into the three main causes of tsunamis and the physical explanation of how they happen. We explored a range of texts to research further information about locations of tsunamis, how t safe and what to look for when a tsunami may be about to happen.

Bringing together Step 1 and Step 2, we researched online and recalled significant natural disaster events. Using Canva and a carefully selected template for purpose, we created timelines showing some of the most impactful 'Extreme Earth' events that had been discovered or recorded. Fascinatingly, we reflected on how resilient our planet truly is!

Step 3

24/06 I can explore the impact of natural disasters on human civilisation.

This week, we have been taking a deeper dive into how humans have attempted to investigate and understand natural disasters in order to support our chances of survival. We discuss why it is important to measure and predict natural disasters and how this helps us to develop technology to minimise, eliminate or predict the effects of natural disasters and how this can help warn populations and encourage them to evacuate or seek shelter.

On Wednesday, we had a splendid day out at the Natural History Museum. Taking the London Underground, we arrived at the museum and headed to the awesome 'Volcanoes and Earthquakes' exhibition to embark on more enquiry into natural disasters. We found out the difference between effusive and explosive volcanoes and looked at infamous events in Hawaii and Indonesia. Using the exhibition headings and subheadings, we were able to pinpoint the information we needed to answer our questions and made some sketches of interesting diagrams and animals that were native to volcanic environments. Interacting with some of the displays, we built volcanoes and took a closer look at a special heat proof suit. The earthquake section was fascinating; we were able to look at real-time data that indicated where earthquakes had happened in the last 24 hours, as well as find out about some of historical myths shared in the past that helped different cultures understand why earthquakes happened. Some of us even experienced the what it felt like during the 95' Kobe earthquake in Japan by stepping into the simulator! In the afternoon, we took part in the workshop and earned our 'NHM accredited diploma in Earthquakes and Volcanoes' as we explored the use of seismometers, the impact of lava flow and many other fun activities, to help the Lego locals of the village find about more.

We finished the week researching the technology and methods that have been devised to help predict, detect, measure and sometimes prevent natural disasters. In small groups, we have each chosen a natural disaster and are beginning to form a 'mini-lesson' to teach the class about our focus. We look forward to delivering our lessons next week and doing an even better job than Hayley!

Step 3

01/07 I can explore the impact of natural disasters on human civilisation.

Our focus this week has been exploring how humans experience natural disasters. To begin with, we enjoyed sharing our mini-lessons and explaining to one another about the technologies, systems and knowledge that is used to predict and measure hurricanes and tornadoes, volcanoes, tsunamis and earthquakes. These were such interesting topics, we even had some of the Forget-Me-Nots join us as they peered into the class den curiously, one lunchtime.

Next, we looked at how humans respond to these emergencies. We reflected on the sad fact that once the media have finished their coverage of a natural disaster after a few days, the devastation and recovery period lasts for much longer. Discussing the issue of displacement, we imagined how difficult it would be for large amounts of people to find shelter, running water and protection and it became evident how quickly disease could spread living in such cramped conditions with the lack of healthcare. We discovered that they are many aid agencies and charities in the world that have been set up to sort people during these events, as well as acknowledging the global support that is activated to ensure the affected people receive essential supplies. We looked at the work of the Italian Red Cross in 2016 after a terrible earthquake happened and the process they went through to support the community and help with recovery. It was fascinating to look at some sources from Christian Aid that discussed many different recent natural disasters that have affected poorer countries and how a network of organisations had provided aid. We found it reassuring that many agencies are working with poorer communities and governments to create change and provide training, guidance and other strategies to help reduce the terrible impact of extreme weather events.