Using a teachable moment to teach about current e

The author took advantage of a “teachable moment” after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami struck the coast of Japan. His first grade students in Oregon did not comprehend and misinterpreted t... See More

The author took advantage of a “teachable moment” after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami struck the coast of Japan. His first grade students in Oregon did not comprehend and misinterpreted the reasons that caused the destruction. His article provides information on how to provide the background needed to address this real-world situation to elementary students. He begins by stating that the students would focus on the physical science of the event, something that could be addressed and tested in the classroom. Using short videos, classroom discussion, NOAA animation, KWL charts, and hands-on, the author was able to generate, develop, and refine scientific inquiry in his classroom. Using the knowledge gained in their investigations of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, the students were also able to branch out and investigate some relationships between their geographical location (the authors school sits between two high elevation volcanic peaks prone to avalanches). The article showed examples of written journal entries, diagrams that the students drew, pictures of a “tsunami” lab experiments performed by the students in their class, and give several probing questions that could be used to help guide the students inquiry process. Although written for an early elementary class, this article can be used in all grade levels. It is clearly written and easy to follow, providing an elegant way to use this at any grade level, even at the last minute.