Get ready for some explosive fun with our National Science Week: Volcano Eruption Experiment! This hands-on activity is designed to capture the curiosity of young learners as they explore chemical reactions through a simple but exciting science experiment. It’s the perfect way to celebrate National Science Week while building inquiry skills in a highly engaging, visual format.

Using common ingredients like vinegar and bicarbonate soda, students will observe and record the fizzy, foamy effects of their very own volcanic eruption. Along the way, they’ll make predictions, follow procedures, and draw conclusions based on what they see, hear, and feel. It’s a fantastic introduction to scientific investigation and real-world phenomena.

The Volcano Eruption Experiment supports students in developing key science inquiry skills, including predicting outcomes, recording observations, and reflecting on results. Whether you’re running this as a class experiment or as part of a science rotation, it’s guaranteed to make a memorable learning experience.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify and describe chemical changes using everyday materials
• ✅ Make predictions and compare them with experimental results
• ✅ Observe changes in materials such as texture, movement, and colour
• ✅ Record scientific findings through drawing and simple written reflections
• ✅ Follow a step-by-step procedure to carry out a basic experiment

What’s Included:

• Student worksheet guiding the full experiment process
• Sections for prediction, procedure, observation, and conclusion
• Space for drawing and reflecting on the eruption results
• Tips for classroom setup and optional extensions

Materials Needed:

• Bicarbonate soda
• White vinegar
• Food dye (optional for visual effect)
• Small container or volcano model (paper cup, plastic cup, or sculpted volcano)
• Tray or plastic sheet to catch the eruption
• Printed worksheet for each student

How to Use:

1. Start with a class discussion about volcanoes and chemical reactions.
2. Have students complete the prediction section of the worksheet.
3. Guide students through the steps to set up and conduct the experiment.
4. Observe the eruption and encourage students to describe what they see and hear.
5. Students complete the drawing and written sections, reflecting on their observations.
6. Wrap up the lesson by comparing predictions with the final results.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use for National Science Week as part of a science rotation or special event
• 💡 Integrate with literacy by having students write a volcano-themed narrative
• 💡 Compare eruptions by changing variables such as quantities or container shapes
• 💡 Set up small group stations and rotate to observe each eruption up close
• 💡 Connect with geography by researching famous volcanoes and their impact

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Conduct the experiment in a large tray or on a plastic sheet to contain spills
• 💛 Use different coloured food dyes for more vibrant eruptions
• 💛 Encourage descriptive language like “fizzing” or “foaming” when recording observations
• 💛 Prepare volcanoes ahead of time using paper mache or clay for an added art-science link

National Science Week: Volcano Eruption Experiment is a guaranteed hit for young scientists. It builds critical inquiry skills, brings chemistry to life, and leaves a lasting impression through visual, hands-on exploration.

This resource pairs well with our National Science Week: Volcano Eruption Craft.

Need more resources? Be sure to check out our other National Science Week resources!