Lesson Plan

• Describe the tectonic processes that cause earthquakes.
• Explain how magnitude and intensity scales measure earthquakes.
• Identify primary and secondary earthquake hazards and their impacts.
• Analyse the 2010 Haiti earthquake case study to evaluate human, economic, and environmental consequences.
• Propose risk‑reduction strategies for earthquake‑prone areas.

• Projector and screen for slides/diagrams
• Whiteboard and markers
• Printed case‑study handout (2010 Haiti earthquake)
• Earthquake hazard worksheet
• Interactive online magnitude/intensity calculator
• Sample building‑code guideline handouts

Begin with a short video clip of a recent earthquake to capture interest. Ask learners what hazards they already know from previous lessons and record responses. Explain that today they will explore how those hazards arise, how we measure earthquakes, and how societies can reduce risk.

1. Do‑now (5'): Students list known earthquake hazards on a sticky note; teacher checks for prior knowledge.
2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Explain why earthquakes occur and introduce magnitude vs. intensity scales using slides.
3. Case‑study activity (15'): In groups, learners analyse the Haiti earthquake handout, identify primary/secondary hazards and impacts, and complete the worksheet.
4. Class discussion (10'): Groups share findings; teacher highlights connections to risk‑reduction measures.
5. Brainstorming session (10'): Whole class generates mitigation strategies (land‑use planning, building codes, early‑warning systems) and records them on the board.
6. Exit ticket (5'): Each student writes one key takeaway and one lingering question on a slip of paper.

Recap the main concepts: causes of earthquakes, how we measure them, the spectrum of hazards, and practical ways to reduce risk. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign homework: research another significant earthquake, summarise its hazards and impacts, and suggest two mitigation measures.