Earthquakes

Ideas for a Mini-Unit: A Work in Progress

Draft 7-2-98

Major Concept: Geology

Content Skills

Land Forms Result From Forces

Conducting Research

Earthquakes Collecting Data

Using Graphs

Recognizing Patterns

Inferring and predicting

Using Technology

Communicating Results

The Challenge

Living in Kentucky gives rise to several concerns and areas of interest in the area of geology. The karst topography of the central region of the commonwealth shows the relationship between water and a soluble rock called limestone. Sinkholes are an everyday part of our region, and impact on construction activities.

The mid-western United States also has seismic concerns which are growing as time goes by. This area has not seen any significant earthquake activity since the 1811-1812 period. Seismologists feel that we are long overdue. Consequently, learning about the geological make-up of Kentucky can pay real dividends in the future.

The San Andreas Fault in California has been sufficiently active to cause researchers and engineers to study and construct facilities that can withstand the rigors of an earthquake's assault. Much is known about effective and safe construction in an earthquake zone. Living and surviving in an earthquake zone is our focus.

Performance Tasks

Task 1: Learn about the Epicenter of an Earthquake

Having been provided data concerning seismic waves produced by an earthquake, determine several aspects about the earthquake to include it's epicenter.

Task 2: Learn how to react to an earthquake

While at school, there are specific procedures to be followed should an earthquake occur. Most of us do not have similar procedures for when we are at home. Your task is to prepare a plan to evacuate your family should an earthquake occur in this area. Consider emergency service coordination, communication, survival, health, transportation, and security concerns.

Task 3: Learn about the probability of earthquakes in this area

Based on fault location, past seismic disturbances, seismologist's predictions, determine whether or not you and your family have a need for earthquake insurance. The specific insurance coverage in the event of an earthquake should also be noted in your decision.

Task 4: Learn about Building Construction and Earthquakes

Research and consider those aspects of building construction that can be altered to cause the building to survive a major earthquake. With these building concepts in mind, recommend those alterations necessary to effectively and efficiently construct an earthquake proof house in central Kentucky.