Burton 4th Graders Build Earthquake-Proof Structures

During the week of November 6, 4th graders at Burton Elementary School engaged in a hands-on science lesson about plate tectonics. After learning about how the shifting of tectonic plates causes earthquakes, students created their own "earthquake-proof" structure as part of the Earth Systems Science unit. Students worked in pairs to use toothpicks and marshmallows to create an earthquake-proof structure on top of a paper plate. Each structure had to be eight inches tall. The plate simulated the Earth’s crust and the classes used a tray of jello for Earth’s mantle. 

While planning their designs, students looked at examples of buildings from around the world that are designed to withstand earthquakes. While researching, students noticed concrete walls with steel cross beams for support and pyramid shapes, for example, are common among solid structure design. Students also learned that scientists test structures using giant shake plates.

To finish out the project, students moved their structures onto the tray of jello while their teacher tested the structure under distress. A back massager was used to simulate the earthquake for ten seconds. Students watched with anticipation and hope that their structures would stay together during the test.

Teacher Keely Galdes shared, “Students were engaged in developing their designs, and proud of their accomplishments when their structure withstood the shaking.”