About this lesson
A closer look
Explore how an underwater earthquake can move the seafloor and generate tsunami waves. Using a modeled earthquake scenario near Ventura, California, this lesson examines how ocean depth and coastline shape affect wave travel. Students build and modify a miniature coastline to investigate wave impacts.
Suggested grade level
Grades 3–5 · Grades 6–8
Suggested teaching range based on the reading, vocabulary, and classroom activity. Younger students may benefit from teacher-guided reading.
Source material
Ryan, K. J., Geist, E. L., Barall, M., & Oglesby, D. D. (2015). Dynamic models of an earthquake and tsunami offshore Ventura, California. Geophysical Research Letters, 42.
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