Subject

• Gather pertinent information to determine if there is threat of a major volcanic eruption occurring in Yellowstone in the near future, using at least three credible scientific sources.
• Analyze his/her research to determine whether or not it supports the likelihood of another major volcanic eruption in Yellowstone in the near future, and present, in writing, at least three reasons supporting his/her conclusion.
• Estimate, in writing, the extent of a major volcanic eruption based on past volcanic eruptions at Yellowstone.

Three caldera-forming eruptions have occurred in the Yellowstone region in the last two million years. Molten rock, charged with gases, accumulated at shallow levels below the ground’s surface, pushing against the overlying crust and triggering earthquakes. Finally catastrophic eruptions occurred, spewing out enormous amounts of magma and ash. The last eruption occurred approximately 640,000 years ago. An area of partially molten rock still underlies the Yellowstone region, heating the water of the park’s geysers and hot springs.

Because it is possible that another massive volcanic eruption may occur, scientists study and monitor the park’s geologic system. Although earthquakes, crustal deformation, and violent hydrothermal activity have occurred in the Yellowstone region for thousands of years, increase in the extent, size, or frequency of these factors could be possible indications of an impending eruption. The effects of such an eruption would likely be worldwide.

Procedure
The instructor will:

1. Ascertain that students understand that Yellowstone is a volcanic system and that crustal deformation, earthquakes, and hydrothermal activity are all manifestations of volcanic activity.
   
   
2. Inform students that they will be evaluating if there is an impending threat of a major volcanic eruption in Yellowstone, based on past and current scientific research. They will also theorize the extent of such an eruption based on past eruptions in the Yellowstone region.
   
   
3. Instruct students to select one of three manifestations of volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region to research: earthquakes, crustal deformation, hydrothermal activity.
   
   
4. Provide students with Attachment A and allow time for them to research the topic they have selected.
   
   
5. Direct student to determine whether or not their research supports the likelihood of another major volcanic eruption in Yellowstone in the near future and theorize the extent of such an eruption.
   
   
6. Instruct student to present their research methods and conclusions in writing. Conclusions should be supported with at least three credible scientific sources.