There are four lessons in this sequence:

Note: An understanding of latitude and longitude will help students with these lessons. If necessary, do the Prerequisite lesson on latitude and longitude first.

Lesson 1: Plotting Earthquakes from Real-time Data is composed of two activities, that together will take two to three class periods.
 
Lesson 2: Fault Types and Plate Boundaries is composed of two activities, that together will take two to three class periods.

Lesson 3: How Deep is the Earthquake is composed of one activity that will take one class period.
 
Lesson 4: Earthquakes as Evidence: Tying it all Together is the culminating lesson composed of a single activity that will take one class period.

Questions to initiate cognitive engagement and active learning:

You have just been given a terrific job – selling earthquake insurance! The pay is good, the company seems fine, and you get a bonus for the number of customers you convince to add earthquake insurance to their homeowner’s policy. Your boss tells you that you can have your choice between working in London, England; New York City; Fairbanks, Alaska; or Brisbane, Australia. How could we find out where your chances of success would be the highest?