Demonstrate Earthquake Safety

On page 35 and 36 of the selection, Jonathon remembers what he learned in school about earthquake safety. Use that information to demonstrate for classmates what to do in case an earthquake strikes.

Deliver a Newscast

With a partner, present a newscast about the earthquake on Magpie Island. You might wish to take on the roles of a television anchorperson and an on-the-scene reporter. Use information from the selection to give details.

Panel Discussion

Have a formal discussion about how Jonathon handled the earthquake emergency.

1. First, review the story to find examples that show Jonathon's leaderships abilities.

2. In groups of three, present opinions on the subject. Have one person act as a moderator to keep the discussion on track.

3. Remember to follow rules for good discussion.

4. See Mrs. Ryder for helpful discussion tips

Write an Adventure Story

Use what you learned about Jonathon and Abby in Earthquake Terror to write an adventure story with the as characters. Your story can tell how they escape from another natural disaster, such as a fire, a flood, or a storm.

Tips:

1. Begin by thinking about the problem the characters face and write down details.

2. Show how the characters feel.

3. Include details of the setting.

Building Vocabulary

Scientists who study earthquakes use specialized terms to identify and describe features of earthquakes. Create a word web using Inspiration that shows vocabulary related to earthquakes. See Mrs. Ryder for a starting point.

1. Work together to find additional words. Type the word meaning in another bubble on the word web. Look up unfamiliar words in a dictionary.

2. Share your words with other groups. Once we have a few groups that have completed this activity, we will create a class web that includes all the terms.

Extension Links

1906 San Francisco Earthquake Newspaper Article

Is your state at risk for an earthquake?

Earthquake Drill!

**Extension Projects are from the Houghton Mifflin Teacher's Edition.