Sequence of Lesson for
Earthquake Hazards I: Ground Failure
Learning Objectives
1.
Preclass video: Students view Earthquake Hazards I: Ground Failure and
answer related questions in an online quiz.
2.
Class begins with a review of learning objectives from video and class
lesson (slide 2).
3.
Next we present a couple of review slides and move on to descriptions of
different types of seismic waves. We use the free Seismic Waves
animation (available from Alan Jones here) as part of a small group
exercise (see slide 3) to have students figure out how seismic waves
move through and across Earth’s surface. We summarize the patterns to
make sure everyone gets it and ask a follow up question (slide 4).
4.
Class ends with a reflection exercise (slide 8) that can be completed later
and review of the day’s learning objectives.
Learning Objectives of the Video Earthquake Hazards I:
Ground Failure
1. I can describe the characteristics of earthquake hazards
associated with ground failure.
• Ground shaking, liquefaction, landslides, surface
rupture
Learning Objectives of the Related Class Lesson
1. I can identify the different types of seismic waves
2. I can explain how earth scientists use seismic waves to
locate and measure earthquakes
3. I can explain the geological conditions likely to result in
greater risk from future earthquakes
1
LO: I can identify the different types of seismic waves
2
LO: I can identify the different types of seismic waves
Watch the Seismic Waves animation and answer the
questions that follow.
1. How long does it take P waves to travel to the other side
of Earth?
2. How do P and S waves interact with the core/mantle
boundary?
3. Is the type and/or speed of seismic waves influenced by
the type fault or plate boundary where the earthquake
originates?
A large earthquake occurred along a fault and
was recorded at a seismograph station 300 km
away. The next day, a smaller earthquake
occurred at the exact same location on the fault.
P-waves would have traveled to the seismograph
station more quickly following the first
earthquake.
A. True
B. False
3
4
LO: I can explain the geological conditions likely to result in greater risk from future earthquakes
Earthquake Hazards
Two inland cities (Wolftown, Tarville) with the same
population experienced two identical earthquakes
(same magnitude, depth, and location relative to city).
Tarville was devastated, while Wolftown suffered only
light damage. Make a list of reasons to explain why
Tarville was heavily damaged while Wolftown was not.
Reflection Exercise
1. Look over your notes and explain how a
specific location would experience seismic
waves from a moderate sized earthquake
located a few hundred kilometers away.
2. Answer the following:
a) What was the most interesting thing you learned
today?
b) What remains the most confusing concept?
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