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This project challenges students to design and build a structure that can withstand a simulated earthquake. Through brainstorming, blueprint creation, and testing, students will learn about the features that make a building more stable during an earthquake and understand the necessary precautions architects must take in earthquake zones.
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Earthquake Challenge Project AC Science Students:
Problem: • What features help a building withstand an earthquake? • How can I use this info to build my structure? • Read ch. 8 section 3 pages 236-237 silently
Group Placement: • You cannot whine, complain, or moan/groan about your groups. They have been chosen for you and YOU must cooperate to receive a good project grade! • There are 4 to a group. Each person must contribute to the project. Groups will have a designated leader who will report any and all concerns, problems, or lack of participation to the teacher. If you are reported, your grade will reflect lower than your peers! • Group leaders will keep up with all paperwork, too.
Objective: Materials: Blueprint via paper Pencil Spaghetti (25 pieces) Mini-Marshmallows (40) Paper Plates • Build a model of a structure that can withstand a simulated earthquake.
Brainstorming: • Brainstorm with your group a structure that will resist the simulated earthquake • Write 2-3 sentences to describe your design • Explain why you think your design can withstand your earthquake • MUST include a rough draft blueprint of your design • (This is part of the final grade!)
Day 2 ~ Building: • Begin to build your designed blueprint • Start with a good foundation • It cannot exceed 10 cm on any side (it may be smaller if you choose) • Height: there is no limit on the building • If your structure falls, you may rebuild and submit a different final blueprint; however, you will not get any additional materials • All details must be finalized by the end of the working day! (Day 2)
Final Design: (end of Day 2) • You must submit a detailed illustration of the final design in color • It must include how many pieces of spaghetti and marshmallows you used.
Day 3: Testing Day • After testing, answer the following questions to submit for your final grade! • Which buildings were still standing after the earthquake? • What features made them more stable? • How would you change your design in order to make your structure more stable? • What are some limitations of your earthquake model? • How did this activity share with you an understanding of necessary precautions that must be taken when architects build structures in earthquake zones?