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Year 6 - Geography

The causes of earthquakes

Earthquakes: how do they change the world?

Unit Summary

This unit explores the causes and effects of earthquakes. Pupils learn where and why they occur, how they are measured, and what can be done to prepare for and respond to them. Case studies include Japan (2011) and Turkey (2023).

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe and explain what causes an earthquake.

Key Notes

  • Earth is composed of four layers: the crust, mantle, outer core and inner core.
  • Movement in the tectonic plates that form Earth's crust causes earthquakes.
  • Earthquakes occur at plate boundaries.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Earth's crust: Earth's crust is the outermost layer of our planet.
  • tectonic plates: The huge pieces that Earth's crust is broken into are known as tectonic plates.
  • shock waves: Shock waves are areas of sudden high pressure or temperature that travel through water, air or the ground.
  • plate boundaries: The point where two tectonic plates meet is known as a plate boundary.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Earthquakes are random events.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this geography topic using two clear key points.

Earth is composed of four layers: the crust, mantle, outer core and inner core. Movement in the tectonic plates that form Earth's crust causes earthquakes.

2. Define this geography term and use it in an example. 'Earth's crust'

Earth's crust is the outermost layer of our planet.

3. Correct this common geography misunderstanding.

Mistake: Earthquakes are random events. Correction: Earthquakes are not random events, but are a consequence of tectonic plate movement.

More Lessons In This Unit

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