Redefining an Earthquake: EQ Machine Lite Activity 1

Description

In this activity students explore a mechanical model of a fault to develop a definition of an earthquake.

Audience

Grades 5 to 12

Time

45 to 50 Minutes

Objective

  1. Define earthquakes and model their occurrence using the earthquake machine.
  2. Describe the role of inquiry in the process of science.
  3. Give examples of why models are important in science
  4. Develop necessary understanding of the Earthquake Machine to allow future exploration.

Supporting Resources

EQ Machine Lite slideshow and supporting files (Direct Download 3MB)

Hubenthal, M., Braile, L., Taber, J. (2008) Redefining earthquakes and the earthquake machine. The Science Teacher, 75(1), 32-36

Annimations and video clips related to the Earthquake Machine Lite

Hall-Wallace, M. (1998) Can Earthquakes Be Predicted? Journal of Geoscience Education, 46, 439-449.

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