UKS2 Topic: Earth Matters Block E: Earthquakes
Learn about the features and key aspects of earthquakes. Find out about the movement of tectonic
plates and about seismic waves. Learn about life in an earthquake zone; compile and practise a class
earthquake drill; find out how buildings are built to withstand earthquakes and then design your own
earthquake-proof structure.
Block: Earthquakes
Main outcome: Geography
[4 sessions]
Other outcomes: D&T
By the end of this block you
will have achieved the
following outcomes:
Session 1: Geography
Earthquakes and plate
Tectonics
Learn about earthquakes
and the movement of
tectonic plates.


Describe and understand key aspects of earthquakes.
Use maps, atlases, globes and digital/computer mapping to locate countries and
describe features studied.
 Use, research and develop design criteria to inform the design of innovative,
functional, appealing products that are fit for purpose.
Children will
 Understand how tectonic plates work.
 Identify the layers of the earth and how earthquakes occur.
 Consider the effects felt at the surface of the Earth when tectonic plates move.
Session 2: Geography and
D&T
What happens when an
earthquake strikes?
What happens when an
earthquake strikes? Find out
about seismic waves and
make a DIY seismograph.
Children will
 Understand what happens with tectonic plates move.
 Understand what seismic waves are and what effect they have during an
earthquake.
 Learn how seismic waves are recorded.
 Make a DIY seismograph in order to gain an understanding of how seismic waves
are recorded and measured.
Session 3: Geography
Living in an earthquake zone
Gain an understanding of life
in an earthquake zone.
Compile and practise your
own class earthquake drill.
Children will
 Gain an understanding of life in an earthquake zone and become familiar with the
precautions and preparations required.
 Compile an earthquake drill for their class, based on their knowledge of how their
surroundings may behave in an earthquake.
 In role, practise an earthquake drill in the classroom.
Session 4: Geography and
D&T
Earthquake survival
Identify the factors that
make buildings withstand
earthquakes and make an
earthquake-proof structure
using marshmallows and
straws on a ‘ground’ of jelly.
Children will
 Understand how buildings are designed to withstand earthquakes.
 Identify some of the factors that make buildings earthquake-proof, including cross
bracing, large ‘footprints’ and tapered geometry.
 Make an earthquake-proof structure using marshmallows and straws on a
‘ground’ of jelly.
The links to the websites and the contents of the web pages associated with such links specified on this list (hereafter collectively referred to as the ‘Links’)
have been checked by Hamilton Trust (being the operating name of the registered charity, William Rowan Hamilton Trust) and to the best of Hamilton
Trust’s knowledge, are correct and accurate at the time of publication. Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other terms and conditions on the Hamilton
Trust website, you acknowledge that Hamilton Trust has no control over such Links and indeed, the owners of such Links may have removed such Links,
changed such Links and/or contents associated with such Links. Therefore, it is your sole responsibility to verify any of the Links which you wish you use.
Hamilton Trust excludes all responsibility and liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of any Links.
UKS2 Topic: Earth Matters Block E: Earthquakes
Resources
Session 1
Provided: Photographs of damage caused by earthquakes; Drawing showing cross section of the Earth’s
core and a broken egg representing the Earth’s tectonic plates; Map detailing plates around the globe.
You will need: Polystyrene cups; Pie pans (8-9 inches); Water.
Session 2
Provided: Photographs showing the effect of seismic waves on railway lines and buildings; Richter scale
descriptions; Instructions on how to make your own seismograph.
You will need: Large tin can per group of 3 children; String; Tape; Pencils; White paper.
Session 3
Provided: Photographs of school classrooms damaged by earthquakes; Map showing the Ring of Fire;
earthquake drill instructions.
You will need: Globe or atlas; Sticky notes or strips of card.
Session 4
Provided: Photographs of houses built to withstand/not withstand earthquakes; Instructions on how to
make an earthquake proof building and test it.
You will need: Jelly (2 pints per group); Flat rectangular dish per group; Straws; Marshmallows; Video
camera.
The links to the websites and the contents of the web pages associated with such links specified on this list (hereafter collectively referred to as the ‘Links’)
have been checked by Hamilton Trust (being the operating name of the registered charity, William Rowan Hamilton Trust) and to the best of Hamilton
Trust’s knowledge, are correct and accurate at the time of publication. Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other terms and conditions on the Hamilton
Trust website, you acknowledge that Hamilton Trust has no control over such Links and indeed, the owners of such Links may have removed such Links,
changed such Links and/or contents associated with such Links. Therefore, it is your sole responsibility to verify any of the Links which you wish you use.
Hamilton Trust excludes all responsibility and liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of any Links.