Earthquake Simulator

Main Idea

Ιn History students learn about earthquakes. They get to know about the attempt of humans to discover the secrets of the creation of the world, myths and Enceladus. They compare how humans tried to interpret physical phenomena in the past and how they do it nowadays. By creating an earthquake simulator, they investigate how buildings can be designed to be stronger and safer.

CreatorDimitra Dimitrakopoulou
SubjectHistory & Computer Science
Length90 minutes
Pedagogical ApproachHaptic Learning
CompetencesBasics, Algorithms
Grades3rd grade
TechnologiesWeDo 2.0 software, Lego Education WeDo 2 core set

Other Materials Needed
Dictionary

Description

Introduction: Ιn history students learn about Enceladus and how ancient Greeks try to explain natural phenomena.

Worksheets- Αctivity 1: Students define the meaning of Enceladus by using a dictionary. (5 minutes).

Discussion: Students discuss in class how the ancient Greeks tried to explain the world and the phenomena of nature and how we explain them today. (10 minutes)

Worksheets- Αctivity 2: Students create in groups an earthquake simulator and buildings by following the instructions. (20 minutes)

Worksheets- Activity 3: Students use the “WeDo 2.0” software to program their robots. By changing the power of the motor, they examine the resistance of buildings in relation to the magnitude of an earthquake. (20 minutes)

Afterwards,students should examine the factors that can influence the resistance of building during an earthquake (the height of buildings and the size of the base of a building). (10 minutes). They build a safe building. (5 minutes)Discussion: Students present their answers in class and discuss them. (20 minutes)

Worksheets

EARTHQUAKE

    

1.Define the meaning of Enceladus (use a dictionary).

2.Follow the link below and create an earthquake simulator and buildings:
https://le-www-live-s.legocdn.com/sc/media/files/building-instructions/wedo-2/45300_03a_earthquake-afc67e89057f5e81fece6402b45b6bac.pdf

3.1. Open the WeDo 2.0 software and program your robot to shake buildings.

3.2. Change the power of the motor and examine the resistance of buildings. What do you observe?

3.3. Investigate and write down the factors that can influence the resistance of a building.

3.4. Build a strong and safe structure.

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