Jess and Sam's Earthquake Activities: Experiment #1

If you are outside during an earthquake, it's important to get away from buildings, overpasses and power lines. Try this experiment to see why.

You will need:

• A cookie sheet
• Some dirt or potting soil
• Some sticks and small branches
• Some thread, string or wire
• Two small figures

Now:

1. Spread a thick layer of dirt on the cookie sheet
2. Use the sticks and thread for power poles and lines
3. Use the branches for trees
4. Set one figure in the open and set the other under the power poles and trees
5. Shake the tray to simulate an earthquake

Discuss:

What happens? Can you see which is the better place to be during an earthquake?

• Jess & Sam's Earthquake
• Experiment #2
• Experiment #3