MIT BLOSSOMS - Can Earthquakes Be Predicted?

This learning video uses a simple analog setup to explore why earthquakes are so unpredictable. The setup is simple enough that students should be able to assemble and operate it on their own with a teacher's supervision. The teaching approach used in this module is known as the 5E approach, which stands for Engagement, Exploration, Explanation, Elaboration, and Evaluation. Over the course of this lesson, the basic mechanisms that give rise to the behavior of the simple analog system are explained, and further elaboration helps the students to apply their understanding of the analog system to complex fault systems that cause earthquakes. It is important that students be familiar with the following prerequisite concepts before beginning the module: earth's interior structure, plate tectonics and plate motions, properties of Earth materials, and faults and fault motions. This lesson can be completed in 50 minutes if the basic materials for construction of the analog setup are compiled prior to getting started in class. Materials needed include: two 4" x 4" wooden blocks; two screw eyes, 12x1-3/16" ; one 4"x36" sanding belt (50 Grit); one 1/3 Sheet of sandpaper (60 Grit); one rubber band; 16" of duct tape; one fabric tape measurement ; one pair of scissors; and one hot glue gun. This interactive lesson incorporates two primary types of activities during the breaks between video segments: Analog setup exploration and Guided discussions. The lesson described in this video module has been adapted from activities developed by Hubenthal, M., Braile, L., Taber, J. (2008) Redefining earthquakes and the earthquake machine. The Science Teacher, 75(1), 32-36.
Resource ID#: 18763 Type: Video/Audio/Animation
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Direct Link: https://web.mit.edu/blossoms/videos/lessons/can_earthquakes_be_predicted

General Information

Subject(s): Science
Grade Level(s): 7, 9, 10, 11, 12
Intended Audience: Educators educators
Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter, LCD Projector, Speakers/Headphones
Instructional Time: 50 Minute(s)
Keywords: Earthquakes, earth sciences, fault, plate tectonics, analog system
Instructional Component Type(s): Video/Audio/Animation,  Lesson Plan,  Problem-Solving Task, 
Instructional Design Framework(s): Learning Cycle (e.g., 5E)
Resource Collection: MIT BLOSSOMS

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