Natural hazards & disasters Explore the conditions that cause disasters on Earth. From volcanoes to earthquakes to pandemics to meteorites, this workshop covers major issues in our world. Enquire Now 🌋 Earth & Space: Natural Hazards Natural Disasters Geology, Atmospheric Science and Planetary Impact Our planet is a dynamic, ever-changing system, but sometimes those changes are truly disastrous. In this hands-on workshop, students move beyond the headlines to investigate the rigorous science behind the world’s most powerful natural events. Through interactive experiments and modeling, students explore the tectonic forces that trigger earthquakes and volcanoes, the fluid dynamics of tsunamis, and the atmospheric conditions that fuel firestorms. We even look beyond our atmosphere to the threat of meteorites and the microscopic reality of pandemics, giving students a holistic view of global hazards. Science Inquiry Focus: Tectonic Forces: Model plate movements and the release of seismic energy. Volcanology: Understand viscosity and gas pressure in different eruption types. Hydrodynamics: Investigate how energy travels through water to create tsunamis. Combustion Science: Analyze how topography and weather influence firestorms. Space Hazards: Simulate meteorite impacts and planetary defense concepts. Epidemiology: Explore the transmission science behind global pandemics. Expert-Led Discovery Led by Churchill Fellow Ben Newsome, we provide a safe environment for students to confront and understand complex global challenges. Trustpilot 4 Million+ Students Inspired since 2004 Trustpilot Check Availability Learning Outcomes: Students develop a deep appreciation for the Earth’s systems and the scientific technologies used to monitor and mitigate natural disasters. 🌍 Systemic thinking. 📡 Data-driven modeling. Quick Links Past projects Requirements Cost per Science Show Free Science Resources Back to Primary Science Visits 150 Free Experiments Fizzics in the Media Australian Curriculum Mapping for all science workshops & shows Australian National Curriculum Mapping for all our science incursions Australian ACARA Content Outcomes: Science F-10 Version 9.0 Year 3 identify sources of heat energy and examine how temperature changes when heat energy is transferred from one object to another AC9S3U03 compare the observable properties of soils, rocks and minerals and investigate why they are important Earth resources AC9S3U02 investigate the observable properties of solids and liquids and how adding or removing heat energy leads to a change of state AC9S3U04 Year 4 identify how forces can be exerted by one object on another and investigate the effect of frictional, gravitational and magnetic forces on the motion of objects AC9S4U03 examine the properties of natural and made materials including fibres, metals, glass and plastics and consider how these properties influence their use AC9S4U04 Year 3 & 4 examine how people use data to develop scientific explanations AC9S3H01, AC9S4H01 consider how people use scientific explanations to meet a need or solve a problem AC9S3H02, AC9S4H02 pose questions to explore observed patterns and relationships and make predictions based on observations AC9S3I01, AC9S4I01 compare findings with those of others, consider if investigations were fair, identify questions for further investigation and draw conclusions AC9S3I05, AC9S4I05 Year 5 describe how weathering, erosion, transportation and deposition cause slow or rapid change to Earth’s surface AC9S5U02 explain observable properties of solids, liquids and gases by modelling the motion and arrangement of particles AC9S5U04 Year 6 compare reversible changes, including dissolving and changes of state, and irreversible changes, including cooking and rusting that produce new substances AC9S6U04 Year 5 & 6 investigate how scientific knowledge is used by individuals and communities to identify problems, consider responses and make decisions AC9S5H02, AC9S6H02 pose investigable questions to identify patterns and test relationships and make reasoned predictions AC9S5I01, AC9S6I01 compare methods and findings with those of others, recognise possible sources of error, pose questions for further investigation and select evidence to draw reasoned conclusions AC9S5I05, AC9S6I05 Australian National Curriculum Mapping for all our science workshops & shows NSW SCIENCE SYLLABUS CONTENT for all our incursions NSW K – 10 Science Syllabus mapping for all our incursions NSW Science Syllabus Content A student: recognises observable changes occurring in the sky and on the land and identifies Earth’s resources ST1-10ES-S investigates regular changes caused by interactions between the Earth and the Sun, and changes to the Earth’s surface ST2-10ES-S explains regular events in the solar system and geological events on the Earth’s surface ST3-10ES-S NSW Science and Technology K–6 Syllabus (Implementation from 2027) For explanatory points & implementation advice for each dot point, please visit the NESA Science and Technology K–6 Curriculum site Stage 2 ST2-SCI-01 uses information to investigate the solar system and the effects of energy on living, physical and geological systems Research and describe the changes to the landscape caused by earthquakes and volcanoes Research, describe and model the internal structure of Earth Describe and model how forces produced by moving water cause erosion ST2-PQU-01 poses questions to create fair tests that investigate the effects of energy on living things and physical systems Stage 3 ST3-SCI-01 uses evidence to explain how scientific knowledge can be used to develop sustainable practices Research the effects of natural events on the atmosphere Explain the effects of natural events and human activities on climate ST3-PQU-01 poses questions to identify variables and conducts fair tests to gather data NSW K – 10 Science Syllabus mapping for all our incursions Print a PDF which details K to 6 mapping of all our NSW science visits VIC Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0 For explanatory points & implementation advice for each dot point, please visit the VIC Curriculum F-10 site. Levels 3 & 4 the properties of natural and made materials, including fibres, metals, glass and plastics, influence their use and re-use. VC2S4U05 forces, including frictional, gravitational, electrostatic and magnetic, can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance and affect the motion (speed and direction) of objects. VC2S4U10 weather events and climate have impacts on the land, air, water and living things; human activity can affect climate. VC2S4U08 scientific investigations to answer questions or test predictions can be planned and conducted using provided scaffolds, including identifying the attributes of fair tests, and considering the safe use of materials and equipment. VC2S4I02 Levels 5 & 6 geological processes including weathering, erosion, transportation and deposition can cause slow or rapid changes to Earth’s surface. VC2S6U05 sudden geological changes or extreme weather conditions can affect Earth’s surface and atmosphere; the impacts of natural hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, wildfires and floods, can be reduced by human actions and technological innovations. VC2S6U06 repeatable scientific investigations to answer questions can be planned and conducted, including, as appropriate, deciding the variables to be changed, measured and controlled in fair tests, considering potential risks, planning for the safe and ethical use of equipment and materials, and obtaining permissions for investigations conducted on Country and Place or in protected areas. VC2S6I02 VIC F – 6 Science Syllabus mapping for all our incursions Print a PDF which details P to 6 mapping of all our VIC science visits School Testimonials View All Sylvania Heights Public School Feedback on: Natural Disasters There has been very positive feedback from the natural disaster incursion presented by Ben on Monday! Thank you for your time and efforts. St Michael's Meadowbank Feedback on: Natural Disasters We would definitely book this again! Science Show Activities Firetornado! A demonstration of vortices found in fire storms. Bernoullibags Fast moving air pulls in more air ... causing damage in the process. Cloud in achamber Learn how low pressure systems cause clouds and downpours. Upsidewater cup Air pressure is stronger than you think! Pandemicspread Just how do pandemics spread? Sadly all to easily... Tsunamiterror Deformations of the sea floor move oceans. Tornadoin a bottle Model the movement of air in a tornado. Shakyseismograph Investigate a seismograph in your classroom. Asteroidimpact Potential world changers are in our solar system. How bad is it? TectonicJigsaw Investigate how plate tectonics form our world. Designing fordisaster Learn how building design can limit damage. Especially in grain silos! Lavaviscosity The type of rock involved in eruptions affect how big the eruption is. Volcano How do they erupt and are they different? Science workshop content What Students Experience: The Dynamic Earth We begin by defining what a natural disaster is and discussing its profound impact on both humans and the environment. It is vital that students understand we are investigating real events; we approach these topics with empathy, acknowledging the communities affected by these occurrences. The journey starts with Plate Tectonics. We demonstrate how the massive movements of Earth’s crust trigger earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Students then move into hands-on rotation stations, becoming scientists as they measure seismic waves with a seismometer, solve tectonic puzzles, and explore the physics of windstorms and tornadoes. Geological Forces Students investigate folding and faults, using viscosity analogies to understand why some volcanoes erupt explosively while others flow calmly. Atmospheric Science Through air pressure experiments, students model the high-energy environments that create destructive tornadoes and windstorms. Global Challenges The session concludes with a look at epidemiology and bushfire science, including a controlled fireball demonstration to show fuel volatility. Real Classroom Feedback K OLF Kingsgrove Kingsgrove, NSW What an impactful day of learning! Our students were fascinated by the plate tectonics demonstrations and loved using real scientific tools like the seismometer. View on Facebook M St Matthew’s Primary Natural Disasters Incursion The Dynamic Earth workshop was outstanding. It perfectly balanced complex Earth science with hands-on discovery. The tornado models were a big hit with the students! View on Facebook ⬅️ Swipe to see more examples ➡️ EST. 2004 Rigorous Earth Science 20 Years of STEM Leadership Fizzics Education provides the specialised equipment—from seismometers to pressure models—that allows students to safely simulate and study the world’s most powerful natural hazards. ✓ Data-Driven Inquiry: Students use real scientific tools to measure and model natural forces in a controlled environment. Trustpilot Requirements 🌪️ Workshop Logistics Session Requirements 👥 Capacity & Timing 👨🎓 Attendance: Max 30 students per session. 🏫 Target: Appropriate for Years 1 to 6. ⏰ Duration: 60 or 90 minutes. 🛠️ Set/Pack: 30 mins setup + 30 mins pack down. 📍 Space & Power 🏗️ Layout: 10 tables arranged in a U-shape. 🔌 Power: Access to 2 electrical power sockets. 🚨 Safety: Fire alarms off where possible (for firestorm demo). 💡 Expert Delivery: To provide the best possible learning experience, materials may be varied to suit the conditions and the audience. Please chat with our presenter if you’d like a specific focus covered. COVID Safe: We’ll tailor the program to suit both your school and current health requirements. Contact us for tailored planning. 🛡️ $20M Public Liability ✅ WWCC Checked 📋 Full Risk Assessments 🎓 Expert Educators Go Further! Complete STEM Units to Support Your Teaching Save planning time with high-quality videos, printable experiments, vocabulary lists, and marking rubrics designed to engage students in long-term Earth Science inquiry. Explore STEM Units Did you know about our larger stage shows? Designed to engage up to 240 students, pair this workshop with one of these school favourites: Big Science Big Fun tick tick BOOM! Destination Moon Food Science Show Deep Blue Oceans Cost 💰 Workshop Investment Natural Disasters Most Popular $580 inc. GST 60-Minute Workshop ✨ $19.33 per student (Based on 30 students) $660 inc. GST 90-Minute Workshop ✨ $22.00 per student (Based on 30 students) Early Bird: Book and pay within 7 days to receive 10% off your booking. View offers & discounts 🌍 Global Reach: Available as an online class anywhere in the world. 📍 Regional: We attend schools via country science tours. 📑 Syllabus: Print a PDF for mapping of all science visits. Call 1300 856 828 Click below to book your primary school science workshop. Find out more about our impact 4 Million+ Students Inspired since 2004 Trustpilot Enquire Now Extension Ideas! STEM Full Day Accelerator - Primary Create a Full Day STEM Accelerator or join us for a rapid science upskill! For schools outside of metropolitan areas please contact us to discuss how this science workshop can be run online or visit your school as part of a regional visit. Click below to know more! Science Full Day STEM accelerator – Primary Teachers Teacher Professional Learning – One hour STEM Ideation Coding Full Day TPL – Primary Teachers Online courses Read More STEM Full Day Accelerator - Primary Create a Full Day STEM Accelerator or join us for a rapid science upskill! For schools outside of metropolitan areas please contact us to discuss how this science workshop can be run online or visit your school as part of a regional visit. Click below to know more! Science Full Day STEM accelerator – Primary Teachers Teacher Professional Learning – One hour STEM Ideation Coding Full Day TPL – Primary Teachers Online courses Read More Extension Ideas! Scientist Q & A Often students attend our science workshops and shows with questions that stem beyond the covered topic area. Ask a scientist aims to give students a chance to get their questions answered! Run as a 30-minute session at a cost of $70 inc. GST. Read More Scientist Q & A Often students attend our science workshops and shows with questions that stem beyond the covered topic area. Ask a scientist aims to give students a chance to get their questions answered! Run as a 30-minute session at a cost of $70 inc. GST. Read More Fizzics Education Awards Related Shows Healthy Choices Years 3 to 6 Maximum 30 students School workshop (NSW only) 60 or 90 minutes Online Class Available New South Wales Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Biological Science Health and Physical Education Human Endeavor Science Inquiry Read More Enquire Now Exploring Energy Years 1 to 6 Maximum 30 students School science workshop (NSW & VIC) 60 minutes Online Class Available New South Wales Victoria Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Chemical Science Human Endeavor Physical Science Science Inquiry Read More Enquire Now Marvellous Mixtures Years K to 4 Maximum 30 students Hands-on science workshop 60 or 90 minutes Online Class Available Victoria Australian Capital Territory Kindergarten Year 1 Year 2 Chemical Science Human Endeavor Science Inquiry New South Wales Read More Enquire Now
Australian National Curriculum Mapping for all our science incursions Australian ACARA Content Outcomes: Science F-10 Version 9.0 Year 3 identify sources of heat energy and examine how temperature changes when heat energy is transferred from one object to another AC9S3U03 compare the observable properties of soils, rocks and minerals and investigate why they are important Earth resources AC9S3U02 investigate the observable properties of solids and liquids and how adding or removing heat energy leads to a change of state AC9S3U04 Year 4 identify how forces can be exerted by one object on another and investigate the effect of frictional, gravitational and magnetic forces on the motion of objects AC9S4U03 examine the properties of natural and made materials including fibres, metals, glass and plastics and consider how these properties influence their use AC9S4U04 Year 3 & 4 examine how people use data to develop scientific explanations AC9S3H01, AC9S4H01 consider how people use scientific explanations to meet a need or solve a problem AC9S3H02, AC9S4H02 pose questions to explore observed patterns and relationships and make predictions based on observations AC9S3I01, AC9S4I01 compare findings with those of others, consider if investigations were fair, identify questions for further investigation and draw conclusions AC9S3I05, AC9S4I05 Year 5 describe how weathering, erosion, transportation and deposition cause slow or rapid change to Earth’s surface AC9S5U02 explain observable properties of solids, liquids and gases by modelling the motion and arrangement of particles AC9S5U04 Year 6 compare reversible changes, including dissolving and changes of state, and irreversible changes, including cooking and rusting that produce new substances AC9S6U04 Year 5 & 6 investigate how scientific knowledge is used by individuals and communities to identify problems, consider responses and make decisions AC9S5H02, AC9S6H02 pose investigable questions to identify patterns and test relationships and make reasoned predictions AC9S5I01, AC9S6I01 compare methods and findings with those of others, recognise possible sources of error, pose questions for further investigation and select evidence to draw reasoned conclusions AC9S5I05, AC9S6I05 Australian National Curriculum Mapping for all our science workshops & shows
NSW K – 10 Science Syllabus mapping for all our incursions NSW Science Syllabus Content A student: recognises observable changes occurring in the sky and on the land and identifies Earth’s resources ST1-10ES-S investigates regular changes caused by interactions between the Earth and the Sun, and changes to the Earth’s surface ST2-10ES-S explains regular events in the solar system and geological events on the Earth’s surface ST3-10ES-S NSW Science and Technology K–6 Syllabus (Implementation from 2027) For explanatory points & implementation advice for each dot point, please visit the NESA Science and Technology K–6 Curriculum site Stage 2 ST2-SCI-01 uses information to investigate the solar system and the effects of energy on living, physical and geological systems Research and describe the changes to the landscape caused by earthquakes and volcanoes Research, describe and model the internal structure of Earth Describe and model how forces produced by moving water cause erosion ST2-PQU-01 poses questions to create fair tests that investigate the effects of energy on living things and physical systems Stage 3 ST3-SCI-01 uses evidence to explain how scientific knowledge can be used to develop sustainable practices Research the effects of natural events on the atmosphere Explain the effects of natural events and human activities on climate ST3-PQU-01 poses questions to identify variables and conducts fair tests to gather data NSW K – 10 Science Syllabus mapping for all our incursions Print a PDF which details K to 6 mapping of all our NSW science visits VIC Curriculum F–10 Version 2.0 For explanatory points & implementation advice for each dot point, please visit the VIC Curriculum F-10 site. Levels 3 & 4 the properties of natural and made materials, including fibres, metals, glass and plastics, influence their use and re-use. VC2S4U05 forces, including frictional, gravitational, electrostatic and magnetic, can be exerted by one object on another through direct contact or from a distance and affect the motion (speed and direction) of objects. VC2S4U10 weather events and climate have impacts on the land, air, water and living things; human activity can affect climate. VC2S4U08 scientific investigations to answer questions or test predictions can be planned and conducted using provided scaffolds, including identifying the attributes of fair tests, and considering the safe use of materials and equipment. VC2S4I02 Levels 5 & 6 geological processes including weathering, erosion, transportation and deposition can cause slow or rapid changes to Earth’s surface. VC2S6U05 sudden geological changes or extreme weather conditions can affect Earth’s surface and atmosphere; the impacts of natural hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, wildfires and floods, can be reduced by human actions and technological innovations. VC2S6U06 repeatable scientific investigations to answer questions can be planned and conducted, including, as appropriate, deciding the variables to be changed, measured and controlled in fair tests, considering potential risks, planning for the safe and ethical use of equipment and materials, and obtaining permissions for investigations conducted on Country and Place or in protected areas. VC2S6I02 VIC F – 6 Science Syllabus mapping for all our incursions Print a PDF which details P to 6 mapping of all our VIC science visits
What Students Experience: The Dynamic Earth We begin by defining what a natural disaster is and discussing its profound impact on both humans and the environment. It is vital that students understand we are investigating real events; we approach these topics with empathy, acknowledging the communities affected by these occurrences. The journey starts with Plate Tectonics. We demonstrate how the massive movements of Earth’s crust trigger earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Students then move into hands-on rotation stations, becoming scientists as they measure seismic waves with a seismometer, solve tectonic puzzles, and explore the physics of windstorms and tornadoes. Geological Forces Students investigate folding and faults, using viscosity analogies to understand why some volcanoes erupt explosively while others flow calmly. Atmospheric Science Through air pressure experiments, students model the high-energy environments that create destructive tornadoes and windstorms. Global Challenges The session concludes with a look at epidemiology and bushfire science, including a controlled fireball demonstration to show fuel volatility. Real Classroom Feedback K OLF Kingsgrove Kingsgrove, NSW What an impactful day of learning! Our students were fascinated by the plate tectonics demonstrations and loved using real scientific tools like the seismometer. View on Facebook M St Matthew’s Primary Natural Disasters Incursion The Dynamic Earth workshop was outstanding. It perfectly balanced complex Earth science with hands-on discovery. The tornado models were a big hit with the students! View on Facebook ⬅️ Swipe to see more examples ➡️ EST. 2004 Rigorous Earth Science 20 Years of STEM Leadership Fizzics Education provides the specialised equipment—from seismometers to pressure models—that allows students to safely simulate and study the world’s most powerful natural hazards. ✓ Data-Driven Inquiry: Students use real scientific tools to measure and model natural forces in a controlled environment. Trustpilot
STEM Full Day Accelerator - Primary Create a Full Day STEM Accelerator or join us for a rapid science upskill! For schools outside of metropolitan areas please contact us to discuss how this science workshop can be run online or visit your school as part of a regional visit. Click below to know more! Science Full Day STEM accelerator – Primary Teachers Teacher Professional Learning – One hour STEM Ideation Coding Full Day TPL – Primary Teachers Online courses Read More
STEM Full Day Accelerator - Primary Create a Full Day STEM Accelerator or join us for a rapid science upskill! For schools outside of metropolitan areas please contact us to discuss how this science workshop can be run online or visit your school as part of a regional visit. Click below to know more! Science Full Day STEM accelerator – Primary Teachers Teacher Professional Learning – One hour STEM Ideation Coding Full Day TPL – Primary Teachers Online courses Read More
Scientist Q & A Often students attend our science workshops and shows with questions that stem beyond the covered topic area. Ask a scientist aims to give students a chance to get their questions answered! Run as a 30-minute session at a cost of $70 inc. GST. Read More
Scientist Q & A Often students attend our science workshops and shows with questions that stem beyond the covered topic area. Ask a scientist aims to give students a chance to get their questions answered! Run as a 30-minute session at a cost of $70 inc. GST. Read More
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