According to the United States Geological Survey each year there are more than 10,000 earth quakes and in many years the number reaches above 30,000. That's a lot of movement! The good news is that most of those earthquakes measure 4.9 or less in magnitude and aren't really felt by humans.
But that doesn't make them any less scary. Earthquakes can be extraordinarily frightening for both children and adults alike. However, when you understand what causes earthquakes and how very frequent they actually are, children can begin to set aside their fear and discover some of the many wonders of the Earth and geology.
Teaching about Earthquakes
Imagine how people must have felt centuries ago when the ground would unexpectedly shake. Today, earthquakes are often predicted as is the potential destruction they may cause. During a geology lesson consider taking a day or two to study the science of earthquakes. Discuss why they happen and how scientists measure and predict them. Teacher Planet can help.
Teacher Planet offers lesson plans on epicenters, real time data projects and how scientists predict earthquakes. They also offer hands on activities to help those tactile learners in your classroom. Worksheets, printables and additional teaching resources help round out your unit on earthquakes and other natural disasters.
