Lesson Plan

Earthquake Building/Shaking Contest

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This Earthquake Building/Shaking Contest lesson plan also includes:

Japan is one of only a handful of countries that constructs buildings that are almost earthquake proof. The 13th lesson in the 20-part series challenges scholars to build structures to test against earthquakes. With limited materials and a time limit, pupils create three-story, 30-cm tall structures with open floor plans to place on a shake table. 

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • As an extension, take the best ideas and use Keva Planks to build a structure to test (Keva Planks all have the same dimensions and weighting, which makes them better for stable building than other brands)
Classroom Considerations
  • Requires a shake table on which to test structures
  • Be aware of any allergies when handling foods
Pros
  • Follows a 5E lesson format
  • Activity easily adapts to higher or lower ability levels
Cons
  • Video links do not work
Common Core