Students explore earthquake hazards and damage to buildings by constructing model buildings and subjecting the buildings to ground vibration (shaking similar to earthquake vibrations) on a small shake table. The buildings are constructed by two- or three-person teams of students. After construction, the buildings are tested by subjecting them to earthquake shaking to see which designs and constructions are successful. Comparison of the results of the building contest with photographs of earthquake damage is used to reinforce the concepts of building design and earthquake risk. (author/ts)

This site offers a step-by-step lesson description about a student construction project investigating the effects of earthquakes on models of a 3-story building. Working in small groups, students construct their models using common materials and meeting size specifications. The building models are then subjected to varying levels of earthquake simulations. The quality of the construction is analyzed based on their durability. This is an excellent introductory lesson to building construction methods. Students in the career-technical fields of Construction or Engineering and Science Technologies will find this activity particularly worthwhile. Teachers can begin this activity by sharing/viewing the earthquake damage pictures provided. (jrs)