Science·Volcanoes & Earthquakes·conceptual
Why Earthquakes Happen
Understand that earthquakes happen when rocks underground suddenly move or break, releasing energy that shakes the ground
Suggested ages 7–9
Learning journey
Your child is learning about what's inside volcanoes and earthquakes, how Earth has different layers, and exploring dramatic geological events like the story of Pompeii and tsunamis.
Evidence of understanding
- Explain that earthquakes are caused by rocks underground suddenly moving
- Describe how this movement sends shaking through the surrounding ground
- Distinguish between the underground cause and the surface effects of an earthquake
Assessment prompt
If Why Earthquakes Happen felt a small tremor or saw footage of an earthquake, could they explain that it happens because rocks deep underground suddenly shift or crack?
Standards alignment
No external standards are linked to this topic.