 |
|
|
*This packet is only available online.
One of the most frightening and destructive phenomena of nature is a severe earthquake and its terrible aftereffects. An earthquake is a sudden movement of the Earth, caused by the abrupt release of strain that has accumulated over a long time. For hundreds of millions of years, the forces of plate tectonics have shaped the Earth as the huge plates that form the Earth's surface slowly move over, under and past each other. Sometimes the movement is gradual. At other times, the plates are locked together, unable to release the accumulating energy. When the accumulated energy grows strong enough, the plates break free. If the earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause many deaths and injuries and extensive property damage.
Today we are challenging the assumption that earthquakes must present an uncontrollable and unforecastable hazard to life and property. Scientists have begun to estimate the locations and likelihoods of future damaging earthquakes. Sites of greatest hazard are being identified, and designing structures that will withstand the effects of earthquakes.
Objective
Students will observe fault movements on a model of the earth's surface.
Time Needed
1 or 2 Class periods
Materials Needed
- Physiographic map of the world
- Per group
- Crayons or colored pencils
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
- Metric ruler
- Construction paper
- Fault Model Sheet (included)
Instructions
- Have students work in pairs or small groups.
- Display the fault models in the classroom after the activity.
- An excellent world physiographic map showing the ocean floor, can be obtained from the National Geographic Society.
|
Background |
Materials and Instructions |
Application Phase |
Extension |
Part 1 |
Part 2 |
Part 3 |
Model
|
|
|
 |
|
