Subject: Earthquakes
Grade Level: Grade 7
Objective:
1. Describe and use the needed terms to differentiate the epicenter from the focus
and then the intensity from the magnitude.
2. Describe the steps to take before, during, and after the earthquake.
3. Identify procedures from the local community in case of a tsunami.
I. Before the Lesson / Pre-lesson Proper
Learning within the curriculum:
1. Understanding Plate Tectonics - Students will learn how the movement of tectonic
plates leads to earthquakes, which provides a foundational understanding of the
causes of seismic activity.
2. Natural Disasters - An exploration of different types of natural disasters, including
earthquakes, helps contextualize the significance of preparedness and response
strategies.
Learning across the curriculum:
1. Physical Science - The study of forces, energy, and motion ties into understanding
earthquakes as a natural phenomenon resulting from physical forces.
2. Geography - Examining how different regions are affected by earthquakes allows
students to connect the physical aspect of earthquakes with human geography and
community preparedness.
Activating Prior Knowledge:
Teaching Strategy: Cooperative Learning
Instructional Materials: Whiteboard and markers for brainstorming.
Energizer 1: Earthquake Simulation - In groups, students act out an earthquake
scenario, making movements to simulate shaking, and discuss what they should do
in such a situation.
Energizer 2: Quick Quiz - Students pair up and quiz each other on what they
already know about earthquakes and tsunamis, sharing facts and myths.
Establishing Lesson Purpose / Intention:
Today, we will explore the critical concepts surrounding earthquakes, including how
to distinguish between key terms and the necessary steps to stay safe during such
events. Understanding these topics is vital for personal safety and community
awareness.
Lesson Language Practice/Unlocking of Difficulties:
Key Terms:
1. Epicenter
2. Focus
3. Magnitude
Key Concepts:
1. The epicenter is the point on the Earth's surface directly above where an
earthquake originates, while the focus is the actual location within the Earth where
the earthquake starts.
2. Magnitude measures the energy released during an earthquake, while intensity
measures the effects of the earthquake at specific locations.
II. During the Lesson Proper
Reading the Key Idea:
The epicenter and focus are key terms used to describe the origin of an earthquake,
while magnitude and intensity help us understand the earthquake's strength and
effects.
Developing Understanding of the Key Idea:
Activities
Activity 1: Epicenter vs. Focus Chart
Teaching Strategy: Interactive/Integrated Learning
Materials: Chart paper and markers.
Significance: Students will collaboratively create a visual chart that differentiates
between the epicenter and focus, enhancing understanding through visual
representation.
Instructions:
1. In groups, research the definitions of epicenter and focus.
2. Create a chart that visually represents the differences, including diagrams.
3. Present your chart to the class.
Rubrics:
- Clarity of Information: 5 pts.
- Visual Appeal: 5 pts.
- Group Presentation: 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1. What is the definition of epicenter?
2. How does the focus relate to the epicenter?
3. Why is it important to understand these terms?
Activity 2: Earthquake Safety Role-Play
Teaching Strategy: Experiential Learning
Materials: None required (can be done in an open space).
Significance: Students will practice safety steps through role-play, reinforcing what
to do before, during, and after an earthquake.
Instructions:
1. Divide the class into groups, assigning each a scenario (before, during, after an
earthquake).
2. Each group creates a short role-play demonstrating safety steps for their assigned
scenario.
3. Perform the role-plays for the class.
Rubrics:
- Understanding of Safety Procedures: 5 pts.
- Creativity in Role-Play: 5 pts.
- Group Collaboration: 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1. What are the key steps to take before an earthquake?
2. How should you respond during an earthquake?
3. What actions should be taken after an earthquake occurs?
Deepening Understanding of the Key Idea:
Activity: Tsunami Preparedness Discussion
Teaching Strategy: Inquiry-based Learning
Materials: None required.
Significance: Students will engage in a guided discussion about community
procedures in case of a tsunami, enhancing their understanding of local disaster
preparedness.
Instructions:
1. Facilitate a discussion by asking questions about what students know regarding
tsunami procedures.
2. Encourage students to share ideas on how to prepare for a tsunami.
3. Summarize key points and emphasize the importance of community
preparedness.
Rubrics:
- Engagement in Discussion: 5 pts.
- Quality of Contributions: 5 pts.
- Ability to Connect Concepts: 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1. What are some community procedures in case of a tsunami?
2. How can individuals prepare for a tsunami?
3. Why is it important for communities to have a tsunami response plan?
III. After the Lesson / Post-lesson Proper
Making Generalizations / Abstractions:
Today, we learned about the critical terms related to earthquakes and the
importance of knowing safety procedures before, during, and after such events.
Understanding these concepts not only helps us stay safe but also builds awareness
in our communities about disaster preparedness. Recognizing our role in these
situations is essential for effective response.
Assessment - Evaluating Learning:
Teaching Strategy: Direct Instruction
Questions:
1. Define the terms epicenter and focus.
2. What steps should you take during an earthquake?
3. Describe a community procedure in case of a tsunami.
For Higher Order Thinking Skills:
Questions:
1. How can understanding the difference between magnitude and intensity help in
earthquake preparedness?
2. What would you do if you were in a building during an earthquake? Explain your
reasoning.
3. How can community awareness and preparedness reduce the impact of natural
disasters?
Answers:
1. Understanding magnitude helps assess the earthquake's strength, while intensity
informs how it affects people and structures, guiding appropriate preparedness
measures.
2. I would drop, cover, and hold on to protect myself from falling debris, as this is the
recommended response to reduce injury during an earthquake.
3. Community awareness fosters preparedness, ensuring that people know how to
respond effectively, which can save lives and minimize damage during disasters.
Additional Activities for Application / Remediation:
1. Create a personal earthquake preparedness plan at home, detailing what steps
your family will take before, during, and after an earthquake. Share this plan with
your family members to ensure everyone is informed and prepared.
