Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano in the world, dominates the landscape of Hawaii’s Big Island. Students learning about this impressive geological feature will come across its impressive height. With a summit elevation of 13,678 feet, it’s one of the tallest peaks in Hawaii and the entire Pacific region. To fully appreciate the significance of Mauna Loa’s height, educators can incorporate various activities and teaching strategies that engage students and provide an enriching learning experience.
One way to convey the scale of Mauna Loa’s height is by comparing it with other well-known landmarks, both natural and man-made. For example, if laid on its side, Mauna Loa would stretch from the coast of California almost to the border of Canada, exceeding the height of popular tourist destinations like the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Empire State Building in New York City. Students can research and create visual aids that illustrate these comparisons, such as diagrams, wall posters, and videos.
Another approach is to use hands-on activities to help students understand the physical dimensions of Mauna Loa. Teachers can create a scaled model of the volcano, using materials like clay, cardboard, or paper mache, and have students calculate and match the correct elevation for each section of the model. This type of exercise reinforces mathematical skills and spatial reasoning, while also facilitating discussions about fundamental concepts in geology and volcanology, such as magma chambers, crater rims, and lava flows.
In addition, students can benefit from exploring the history and culture of Mauna Loa and its surrounding area, which has long been a source of spiritual significance and scientific curiosity. Hawaiian mythology and folklore provide rich storytelling opportunities that can help students connect with the land and understand the cultural values that have shaped the local community. Guest speakers, field trips, and interactive media resources can also offer unique and practical insights into the geological and environmental features of Mauna Loa and the challenges it presents for conservation and management.
Finally, teachers can encourage students to conduct independent research and present their findings in a variety of formats, such as essays, presentations, or online portfolios. These projects can focus on specific aspects of Mauna Loa’s height, such as its impact on weather patterns, its role in the formation of Hawaiian Islands, or the ecological diversity it supports. Research-based assignments foster critical thinking, creativity, and academic mastery, and can prepare students for future studies and careers in Earth sciences.
