Minds on Science Gazette

Volume 9
 Planning Activities: Earth Science

Designing Units & Courses

Shake, Rattle and Quake: Earthquake Waves.

In this activity, students investigate the differences between primary and secondary earthquake waves by simulating waves with a toy called a slinky. The activity can be done as a demonstration, or as a small group activity in which students work in pairs or groups of four.

Objectives.

  • To observe and differentiate earthquake waves.
  • To understand the effects of earthquake waves.

Concepts:

  • Earthquake
  • Waves (P and S)
  • Energy

Materials. Slinky (double length)

Procedures.

1. To explore primary earthquake waves, with a partner, stretch a slinky to about 5 M in length. While holding one end, gather in about 15 extra coils and let them go. Repeat several times while watching the coils. Draw a picture showing your observation.

2. To explore secondary earthquake waves, with a partner, stretch the slinky to about 5 M in length again. Quickly move your hand to one side and back again in a snapping motion. Repeat several times while watching the coils carefully. Draw a picture showing your observation.

•3. To find out what happens when earthquake waves meet each other, or bounce off objects stretchs the slinky to about 5 M again. Both you and your partner should quickly move your hands to one side and back again.

Application to Science Teaching.

1. Draw a concept map for "earthquakes," in order to describe the conceptual nature of a lesson or mini-unit on earthquakes.

2. Rewrite the objectives of this activity to include a cognitive skill, psychomotor skill, and an affect.

3. Use this lesson as a central instructional foci for a mini-unit on earthquakes. What other instructional foci would you include?