Ask them if there are other materials they would suggest, and have the class discuss their acceptability. It should then be covered with loose, dry sand, with the ends a little exposed so you can manipulate them. Explain that the buildings will be placed on top of this simulator for their earthquake tests. Students should begin the construction of their models. Tell them that testing will begin the next day so that all glue must be dry by the beginning of the next day's class.
Students complete their models.
Take pictures of the models before testing. If cameras are not available, students should draw their model. They must also write a paragraph explaining the design features of their model. Put one of the model buildings on the sand on top of the slinky. Test the model with a p-wave by compressing links in one exposed end of the slinky and letting the wave travel the length of the buried slinky.