During a unit on sedimentary rock, my students create sediment bottles. I allow the students to choose their own mixture ratio, but caution them not to fill the bottle more than halfway with sediments. After the explore time is up, we discuss the observations and attempt to relate them to the process of sedimentary rock formation. Throughout the next few weeks, students record their observations of the sediments in the bottles. Once building is completed, she lightly shakes the cardboard base to simulate a small earthquake.
Students analyze their structure and detail any damage they observe.
At the end of class, the students compare their buildings and analyze features that should be included in earthquake proof buildings.