Why Do Some Places Have More Large Earthquakes?
Data Story
In this Notice & Wonder Data Story, students investigate where large earthquakes occurred around the world between 1994 and 2021. Students begin by identifying patterns in a graph, then examine the same data on a world map before comparing earthquake locations with tectonic plate boundaries. Throughout the investigation, students make observations, ask questions, and use evidence to explain why patterns appear in the data. Students will: Read and interpret graphs and maps. Identify patterns in the locations of earthquakes. Compare multiple representations of the same data. Make observations supported by evidence. Ask meaningful questions about scientific data. Explain how additional information can help reveal patterns. Big Idea: Scientists and mathematicians use different representations of data to discover patterns, ask questions, and better understand the world.
Earthquakes happen when rocks deep inside Earth suddenly move. This movement sends energy through the ground, causing it to shake. Scientists measure the magnitude of an earthquake. [--- Magnitude: A measure of how much energy an earthquake releases. The higher the magnitude, the stronger the earthquake. ---] {alert-vocabulary} In this data story, you will investigate 25 large earthquakes with magnitudes of 8.0 or greater that occurred around the world between 1994 and 2021. As you explore the data, look for patterns, make observations, and think about questions you have about where these large earthquakes happened. Click Next to begin!
Topics and standards: Claim-Evidence-Reasoning, Tuva Jr., 4-MD-B-4, 4-E-12-1