Student Learning at Adams is Erupting!

What is a classroom volcano activity?

A classroom volcano activity typically involves creating a small-scale model of a volcano and simulating an eruption using simple household materials. While it may not be an accurate representation of real volcanic processes, it provides a hands-on and engaging way for students to learn about volcanoes and the basic principles behind their eruptions. The science behind this activity can be explained as follows:

1. Volcanic Structure: Volcanoes are geological formations that occur when molten rock called magma rises to the surface. They typically have a conical shape, with a central vent or crater through which the magma and other materials are expelled during eruptions.

2. Magma Composition: Magma is a mixture of molten rock, gases, and dissolved minerals. It is usually formed from the melting of rocks in the Earth's mantle or crust. The composition of magma can vary, but it is commonly made up of silicate minerals, such as basalt or andesite, along with dissolved gases like water vapor, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.

3. Eruption Triggers: Volcanic eruptions can be triggered by several factors, including the accumulation of pressure due to the rising magma, the release of gases, or interactions with external factors such as tectonic plate movements or the addition of new magma.

4. Lava Flow: During an eruption, magma that reaches the surface is called lava. Lava can vary in viscosity (thickness) depending on its composition and temperature. High-viscosity lava is sticky and tends to form slow-moving flows, while low-viscosity lava is more fluid and can form faster-moving flows.

5. Gas Expansion: Gases dissolved in magma, particularly water vapor and carbon dioxide, can expand rapidly as pressure decreases during an eruption. This expansion of gases creates bubbles or gas pockets within the magma, increasing its volume and propelling it out of the volcano with explosive force.

6. Ash and Pyroclastic Material: Volcanic eruptions can also produce ash and pyroclastic material, which are fragments of solidified lava, rock, and volcanic glass. These materials are ejected into the air and can travel long distances, posing hazards to surrounding areas.

In a classroom volcano activity, a model volcano is usually built using materials such as clay, paper mache, or plaster. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid) are commonly used to simulate an eruption. When the baking soda and vinegar mix, they undergo a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas, creating a foaming and bubbling effect that mimics the release of gases during a volcanic eruption. The eruption can be enhanced by adding red food coloring to represent molten lava.

While this activity provides a simplified demonstration of volcanic processes, it helps students understand the basic concepts of volcanoes, including magma, eruptions, lava flow, and gas expansion. It also allows them to observe the visual aspects of an eruption and sparks their curiosity about the geological phenomena happening on our planet.

Principal Kaplicky of Adams Elementary shares an appreciation for a recent positive Parent Listening Session with Board Chair Walker, R. Becket, Dr. Greene, and Dr. Darling and their Parent Booster Club. 

Highlights of the meeting included the transformation of the new Parent Board over the last year, averaging 300 people every month for movie nights, positive feedback on the CEE (Culture and Climate) survey, and discussion of events like Posada (500 attendees last December and a projected 700 for the upcoming December).

"It was a pleasure to meet with parents who sincerely expressed appreciation for the teachers and administrators at Adams.Their students are feeling safe, they like coming to school, and are performing well in their classes, said Board President, Norm Walker.

Parents interested in involvement can call 509-573-7073 for more information. 

10-year-old Lily Baker of Adams Elementary is an ACE all-star and will serve as a national patient ambassador to raise awareness about the work of the Children's Miracle Network.

This February, Lily, her family, and her teacher attended a red carpet event at the Children's Village that celebrated her welcome to the Ace community. As the tenth selection, Baker secured a $10,000 donation to the MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital in her honor. As an All-Star, she’ll continue to share her story and help raise funds for the hospital.

On March 16th, Lily will be participating in the Mr. IKE pageant as a miracle child.   

"I'm so excited for Lily. She has been instrumental in the mentor/mentee program at Adams and a perfect example of the school's inclusive practices," says Doug Kaplicky, Principal at Adams Elementary.  

To learn more about The Memorial Foundation's upcoming fundraising efforts that often fill funding gaps, please visit here.