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Earth Systems Model Builder

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Earth Systems Model Builder

Read the science brief, then use evidence to build a model showing how an eruption connects Earth's systems. Matter moves between systems; energy can be transferred between them. Use arrows and labels to make those connections clear.

Science Brief: When a Volcano Erupts

A volcano releases hot molten rock, ash, and gases from below Earth's surface. Once molten rock reaches the surface, it is called lava. Heat from inside Earth helps drive the eruption. Lava and ash can cover soil and change the shape of the land. Ash and gases enter the air; winds can carry ash far from the volcano. Rain may wash ash into streams and rivers. This can make the water cloudy and affect plants and animals. In time, cooled lava breaks down and can become part of new soil. The effects depend on where the materials travel and which living things are nearby.

Investigate the Connections

Use the science brief as evidence. The four Earth systems are the geosphere (solid Earth), hydrosphere (water), atmosphere (air), and biosphere (living things).

1.A student says, “Ash is part of the atmosphere, so it cannot affect the hydrosphere.” Which detail from the brief best challenges this claim?

Rain can wash ash into streams and rivers.
Heat from inside Earth helps drive an eruption.
Cooled lava can become part of new soil.
Winds can carry ash far from the volcano.

2.Match each description to the Earth system it names.

Solid rock and land
Rivers and rain
Air carrying ash
Plants and animals

Atmosphere
Geosphere
Hydrosphere
Biosphere

3.Complete the chain using the brief: Rain washes ash into a stream. The ash moves from the to the .

4.True or false? When lava cools, it can eventually contribute material to new soil.

TrueFalse

5.Identify one energy source involved in an eruption and explain one effect of that energy.

Build Your Systems Model

Make a model of the eruption and its effects. Include all four system names, at least three directional arrows, and short labels explaining what matter or energy moves and what happens as a result.

6.Draw your own model of a volcanic eruption connecting at least three of Earth's systems. Label each arrow with what moves (matter or energy) and one cause-and-effect note.

7.Select the arrow that represents matter moving between Earth systems.

Heat from inside Earth warms rock.
Ash is carried by wind into the air.
Energy heats lava.
Sunlight warms the ground.

8.Name two systems affected when ash falls into a stream, and describe one possible effect on living things.

9.Which evidence supports the idea that volcanic eruptions can change the geosphere over time?

Winds can carry ash far away.
Cooled lava can break down and become part of new soil.
Rain can wash ash into streams.
Animals may live near a volcano.

10.In 3–4 sentences, explain how an eruption connects at least two Earth systems. Include one specific detail from the science brief and explain what one arrow in your model means.