With their travel documents in hand, the fifth graders trekked up Pacaya volcano in Guatemala. The virtual field trip, planned in conjunction with their studies of natural disasters, was incredibly exciting. Guided up to the summit by a native guide, Mr. Brandon from Learn Around the World via Zoom, the students explored this natural wonder, one of three active and 34 dormant or extinct volcanoes in this Latin American country known as the “Land of Volcanoes.”

The students interacted via a live camera, asked relevant questions, experienced the geography and topography of Guatemala and even roasted marshmallows using the hot lava vents. They heard from a local Mayan about living in a “volcanic neighborhood” and why he chose to live in that area. What a wonderful way to bring to life their unit on natural disasters!