Explore the fault that makes California's terrain so trecherous.
The California fault line is responsible for the abundance of earthquakes that have hit California in recorded history. This line is created by the meeting of the North American and Pacific tectonic plates. As these plates move, sometimes independently of each other, they create an Earth-shaking spectacle. Teachers can engage their middle school students in a high-interest exploration of this phenomenon by engaging them in fault line activities.
Fault Line Map
Familiarize your students with the California fault line by turning a fault line map into a coloring page. Create copies of a fault line map, like the one featured on TeachingBoxes.com. Provide your pupils with copies of this diagram and art supplies. Allow them to take a break from the serious study of middle school and add color to this bland diagram. As they place color on the image, they will commit it to memory. Display the fault line artwork around the classroom.
Movement Prediction Tools
Fault line movements are largely unpredictable, making earthquakes an even more imposing threat. Scientists do, however, have some means by which to determine when a fault line might cause a quake. Engage your students in an exploration of these tools. Divide students into groups of three or four. Provide each group with print resources as well as the Internet. Instruct the groups to search their provided resources for tools that scientists may be able to use to predict movement and therefore save lives.
After students have completed their study, create a list of tools they found on the classroom chalkboard. Allow each group to select one of the listed tools to research in greater depth. Instruct groups to create posters that explain their assigned tools and tell others how the tools could help build a better understanding of fault line behavior.
Earthquake Brochure
Those who live in the California earthquake zones or in close proximity to any fault line may be consistently vigilant and watch out for signs of earthquakes. As you conclude your earthquake study, ask students to use their understanding of these natural disasters to create an informative brochure that could be used by individuals who live in earthquake-prone areas. Either provide students access to a computer publishing program that offers a brochure template or paper and art supplies, and ask them to craft an engaging and educational brochure to impart earthquake information to the masses.
Tags: fault line, fault line, California fault, California fault line, each group
