Types of Volcanoes Worksheets
When I first introduced the Types of Volcanoes Worksheets to my children, I didn’t expect it to lead to such curious conversations about lava, eruptions, and which volcano would be the “most fun to run from.” These printable pages were a hit. The hands-on format made it easy to engage with, and it naturally opened up discussions and creative thinking.
If you’re exploring Earth science topics, you might also want to check out my Earth Science for Kids page. It’s full of learning resources that have helped us build consistent lessons around geology, weather, and more.
I’ll walk you through what’s included in this worksheet pack and how it helped us explore the different types of volcanoes through drawing, writing, and some giggle-filled science role-play. Keep reading if you’re looking for a mix of fun and learning in your next Earth science activity.
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Unusual and Fun Facts About Volcanoes
There’s always more to volcanoes than just lava and smoke. During our lesson, one of the kids asked if all volcanoes look the same. That simple question led us into a spontaneous research session. Spoiler: they definitely don’t.
- Some volcanoes erupt with no lava at all. These types, known as phreatic eruptions, are steam-driven explosions caused by the rapid heating of water beneath the ground by magma. They can be powerful and unpredictable despite the lack of flowing lava.
- The loudest sound in recorded history came from a volcano. In 1883, Krakatoa erupted, and the sound was heard more than 3,000 miles away. That eruption even changed global temperatures.
- Volcanoes can create their own weather. Some volcanic eruptions are so powerful that they trigger lightning within the ash plume. This phenomenon, known as volcanic lightning, appears both eerie and fascinating.
Books About Volcanoes We’ve Enjoyed
If you’re building a unit study, books are such a helpful anchor. We’ve borrowed several engaging ones from our local library that explained volcanoes in kid-friendly ways. These pair well with the printable pack, especially if your child wants to know more about how volcanoes form and what causes eruptions.
VolcanoesVolcanoes For kids: Educational science book for learning about volcanoes (Educational books for kids)I’m a Volcano! (Science Buddies)National Geographic Kids Everything Volcanoes and Earthquakes: Earthshaking photos, facts, and fun!Erupt! (National Geographic Kids Readers, Level 3): 100 FUN Facts About VolcanoesOh, the Lavas That Flow! All About Volcanoes (The Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library)
Why should kids learn about the different types of volcanoes?
Learning about volcano types goes beyond just memorizing names. It provides kids with a deeper understanding of how the Earth changes over time. These lessons naturally connect to geography, earth systems, and natural disasters.
- Critical thinking: Identifying how each volcano erupts and behaves prompts kids to think about cause and effect in nature.
- Geography tie-ins: They begin to understand how volcanoes shape landscapes and why some countries experience more volcanic activity than others.
- Visual understanding: It becomes easier to spot patterns in science when kids can compare real-world examples to diagrams.
Recommended Earth Science Printables
If you’re looking to expand on this topic, there are a few Earth science worksheet packs I’ve used that keep the momentum going. We usually rotate through these during the week when we want more structure in our science blocks.
They offer coloring, labeling, and easy-to-follow science concepts. They’re especially helpful for visual learners who need something more interactive.
What skills can children learn with this printable?
This printable goes beyond filling in the blanks. It encourages a range of learning goals that easily fit into your lesson.
- Science comprehension: The matching and labeling sections help kids sort facts and understand the features of each volcano.
- Creative thinking: With pages for drawing and describing volcanoes, kids express what they’ve learned in their own words and pictures.
- Writing Practice: The “Volcano Explorer” page provides kids with space to write a mini-report in a fun and imaginative way.
Recommended Volcano STEM Kits
If your kids are into hands-on projects, volcano STEM kits can be a great addition to this worksheet set. They make a nice weekend activity that reinforces everything your child learns in the printable pack.
Klever Kits Amazing Science Kits- 85+ Experiments Educational Toys, STEM Activities with Erupting Volcano and Growing Crystal Tree for Kids Aged 6 7 8+Thames & Kosmos Massive Erupting Volcano STEM Kit | DIY Giant Volcano Model, 1-Foot Tall | Includes Materials for Multiple Eruptions | Explore Volcanoes, Geology, Earth Science | Science Fair ProjectNATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Earth Science Kit – 100+ Science Experiments & Activities for Kids, Crystal Growing, Volcano Science Kit, Rock Collection, STEM Project Toy for Boys & Girls (Amazon Exclusive)Blue Marble National Geographic Jumbo Volcano Science Kit – 18Learning Resources Fizzy Volcano Science Kit – 13 Pieces, Ages 4+, Preschool STEM Toys for Kids, Science ExperimentsDoctor Jupiter STEM Volcano Science Kit for Kids Ages 8-9-10-11-12-13-14 | Birthday Gift Ideas for Boys & Girls 8+ Years Old | Toy with 50+ Experiments | Learning & Educational Kits
Volcano Pages Supplies
Some pages are writing-based, while others allow for drawing and creativity. Here are a few materials we like to have close when working through this pack:
- Printer (I have this one)
- Paper
- Pencil
- Crayons
I have the HP printer 8710, but it’s not available anymore. It’s been running well for years now. Look for another HP Instant Ink-ready printer so that you can use their program to send you ink cartridges whenever your printer gets low on ink.
What is included in the Volcano Types Printable Pack?
Volcano Fact Sheet
This page explains the three primary types of volcanoes: shield, cinder cone, and composite. It breaks down their shapes, eruption styles, and what makes each one unique.
Matching Activity
Kids read through a short description and match it to the correct volcano. We had some fun guessing first, then checking our work using the fact sheet.
Volcano Questions
Simple but effective. This worksheet includes five simple comprehension questions to review the content. I used this for oral review before they completed it.
Crossword Puzzle
A favorite around here. The clues come straight from the fact sheet, so it’s a great way to test retention without it feeling like a quiz.
Draw and Describe
Each volcano has its box for sketching and a few lines for writing a description. This was a great transition to art time during our day.
Volcano Explorer Page
This is where things got fun. The kids got to pretend they were scientists observing an eruption, complete with drawings, observations, and a “scientist’s report” section.
Answer Keys
Yes, there are keys. Super helpful if you’re juggling other subjects and need a quick check.
Try These Fun Earth Science Activities Next
If your kids enjoyed learning about volcanoes, they’ll probably love trying other Earth science topics, too. These activities help maintain momentum while exploring geology, weather, and the environment.
- Volcano Worksheets for Kids
- Parts of a Volcano Worksheets
- Lava Lamp Experiment
- Rock Cycle Worksheet by Homeschool of 1
- Layers of the Earth Preschool Craft by Homeschool Preschool
This volcano printable for kids offers a thoughtful way to bring science to life at home. They’ve been a solid addition to our Earth science unit and sparked some entertaining discussions. If you need a quick lesson or a part of a larger science plan, these pages are a great choice. I think you’ll find your kids enjoy it as much as mine did.