Preview Only

Natural DisastersActivity for Kids

Seismograph DIY

Duration: 30-60 min
Difficulty: Medium
Cost: $0 to $5

Construct your own seismograph and simulate an earthquake!

Visit The Full Lesson Download Instructions as PDF

Material List

1Box
1Pair of scissors
5Rubber bands
1Marker
1Paper strip
1Ruler

Instructions

1Tape one side of the box closed.
2Cut a rectangular slit on both sides of the box along the bottom.
3Along the top, poke a hole in the 4 corners of the box.
4Tie 1 rubber band around each of these holes.
5Loop the 4 bands around a marker and use one more rubber band to secure it in place.
6Adjust the height of the marker so it just barely touches the bottom of the box.
7Feed the paper strip through the slot while shaking the box to simulate an earthquake.

Create A Free Account To Unlock All Content!

Get Full Access

Become A Member To Get Full Access!

Plans & Pricing

How It Works

When an earthquake occurs, a seismograph records earthquake activity. Due to the shaking, a pattern on the sheet of paper is created. These patterns provide information about the details of an earthquake, such as how strong it was and how long it lasted.