Audrey Lowe

History 1700
April 29, 2015

Project 2
Earthquake; Elementary Teacher
An earthquake is caused by sudden breaks along the fault lines because the tectonic plates
are moving and causing friction. This friction of energy causes seismic waves that make the
ground shake, making an earthquake.
It is important that we are aware of natural disasters that can happen in our location. We
need to know how to prepare for the disaster, the immediate aftermath of the disaster, and
adapting to the effects of the disaster. We can learn how to best prepare ourselves and others for
an earthquake: (https://www.fema.gov/earthquake).
1. React Safely. Learn what to do during an earthquake.
2. Take Cover. In each room of your home (or location), identify the safest places to
drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake.
3. Survive on Your Own.
4. Stay in Contact.
5. Care for People, Pets, and Property.
As an elementary teacher, it is important to teach the children at a young age how to prepare
themselves for these situations. They need to be aware of the world and what can happen in it.
With this, we can practice by doing earthquake drills. By doing this, they will be able to
experience what it would be like if they really were to be in the situation. This is best because
they will then be prepared if it ended up being realistic.
Not only is it important to know how to prepare for an earthquake. But it is important that
people are aware of the aftermath and the effect that is has on the world and individuals. Natural
disasters are capable of effecting people physically, emotionally and mentally. In the aftermath,
people may continue to encounter sights, sounds, smells, sensations, and inner feelings that

remind them-even years after-of the earthquake. (http://www.nctsn.org). Post-earthquake effects

definitely have an effect on the earth itself, but also have effects on the people in the location.
Many children and adults may go through severe depression, posttraumatic stress reactions, trust
issues, anxiety, etc.
We can also learn how to adapt to the effects of the disaster both long term and short
term, as well as mitigation. Some people may have to go through therapy, and slowly learn how
to get back into the real world. People can come together as a community, family and friends
and be there for one another to help each other with what they have faced.