Most middle school students will at some point in their career build a model of a volcano as an introduction to the geologic processes that produce a volcanic landform. Often this is modeling clay or paper replica of the "typical" volcano forms. It was proposed, in support of inquiry based learning and in recognition of middle schoolers being very "me" centered, that a topographic map based lesson about volcanoes would strengthen students understanding of these geologic processes. Students first study topographic maps, contour interval and the volcanic forms in profile and as contour map features. They then observer different topographic maps, which feature various volcanoes. By looking at specific examples of "famous" and local volcanoes, the students can make the connection between the volcano type, how they are represented in 2 dimensions and what they can actually see in the "field" (either through actual field trips to local sites or via the internet through various websites that offer volcano updates.) The learning experience culminates with the students building models based on the topographic contours of a particular volcano and preparing and/or presenting a report on that volcano, its type, structure and history.

The poster presentation will include several techniques for building landform models using topographic map contours, student products that show diversification of the lesson for different learning styles, suggested support information for lesson extension, and student assessment. This type of lesson could be applied to other landforms being studied in an earth science classroom.