Live Science Class for Kids: Ben Franklin and Volcanoes

Volcano eruption with plume of smoke rising above an island and the sea

Join our series of weekly virtual classes to learn how Ben Franklin’s inventions and scientific discoveries illuminate the national curriculum! You can recreate all the featured science demonstrations at home using household materials.

In 1783, a dramatic volcanic eruption took place in Iceland which lasted for several months. Ben Franklin wrote about how the eruption might have impacted the climate across Europe. Find out more about the eruption of Laki and how volcanoes work. You’ll also create your own model of an erupting volcano!

Materials: small plastic bottle, paper, scissors, tape small bowl, cup, 1tbsp bicarbonate of soda, 1 tbsp washing up liquid, 2 tbsp water, ½ cup vinegar, 1 tbsp red food colouring, 

Links to the Science Curriculum:

KS2: Rocks (Y3)

KS3: Earth and Atmosphere

Most Suitable for KS2 and KS3 but all ages welcome!

If you have any questions, please contact education@bejaminfranklinhouse.org

How to make a model volcano: