Craters of the Moon - English version
handout exercisesuggested grade levels: 9-12
view Idaho achievement standards for this lesson


Overview:
The Craters of the Moon national monument was established to preserve its unique volcanic features. It protects 83 square miles of land and is a great educational setting. It is home to many species of plants and animals adapted to live in dry volcanic habitats. Having your students do this exercise will make them much more familiar with this unique place. This activity can be done in groups or even as a homework assignment.

Objectives:
1. Students will use the Geology section of the Digital Atlas of Idaho.
2. Students will learn about basic geology concepts and how they relate to Craters of the Moon.

Procedure:
1. Encourage your students to use the Digital Atlas.

2. To get there: Click on Atlas Home, Geography, Parks and Monuments, Craters of the Moon, then on Start monument module.

3. Have your students read through the information and encourage them to click on the links so they can see the pictures. Give your students the opportunity to learn by having them complete the following handout. For a printable pdf copy of a handout you can give your students, click below.

Handouts/Activities:
These are links to access the handouts and printable materials.
geo3ho.pdf | geo3AK.pdf | Start monument module

Handout Sample:
The sample questions below are shown in the printed handout.

The Craters of the Moon national monument was established to preserve its unique volcanic features. It protects 83 square miles of land and is a great educational setting. It is home to many species of plants and animals adapted to live in dry volcanic habitats. By doing this exercise, you will become very knowledgeable about this unique area.

    A. Definitions: Define the following terms.
         1. aa lava
         2. block lava
         etc...

    B. Questions: Answer the following questions:
         1. Where are the Craters of the Moon located?
         2. Briefly describe how and when the Craters of the Moon became a National Monument.
         etc...

Related Lesson Topics:
Geology: Geology Topics


Lesson Plan byVita Taube, 2000; updates by Teresa Kennedy & Jaime Yáñez, 2002
Idaho Achievement Standards (as of 7/2001) met by completing this activity:
357.01.02
401.01.04.05
402.01.03.