Earth Shattering Events: Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Cyclones, Tsunamis and Other Natural Disasters
Non-Fiction by Robin Jacobs and Sophie Williams Series
What’s inside...
An atlas of the most extreme meteorological and geological disasters that nature has to offer! We humans take our domination of the planet for granted, but sometimes nature reminds us that this is an illusion. Tectonics rip open the earth, vast waves sweep away coastal towns, magma spews from volcanoes and hurricanes lay waste to entire countries. This book explores nature at its most destructive. Clear, coherent explanations break down the science behind phenomena including hurricanes, tornadoes, avalanches, earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes, alongside fascinating facts about the biggest and the worst. Informative, accessible illustrations by Sophie Williams make this so much more than your standard geography book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-12
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would feel like to experience a natural disaster like an earthquake or a tsunami?
Why do you think understanding natural disasters is important?
How do people help each other during and after a natural disaster?
Can you think of any ways we can prepare for natural disasters to keep ourselves safe?
What is one new thing you learned about volcanoes or cyclones from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about natural disasters, and discuss any fears they might have.
Highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and discuss as a family what steps you can take to be safe.
Ask your child to draw or describe a natural disaster they found interesting, to deepen their understanding and retention.
Promote empathy by discussing how communities come together during tough times, and ask how they might help if given a chance.
Connect the content to real-life events, if appropriate, to enhance relevance and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Natural Disasters
Explanation: The book explains complex natural phenomena in an accessible way, helping children understand the scientific reason behind events such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
Real-World Application: This knowledge demystifies scary events and helps children remain calm and informed during real-life natural disaster situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of Preparedness
Explanation: Through various examples of disasters, the book teaches the importance of being prepared for any emergency, emphasizing safety measures and readiness plans.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in family emergency drills and understanding the safety procedures at home and school.
Example Lesson: Compassion and Community Help
Explanation: The book includes stories of communities coming together to help each other during tough times caused by natural disasters, highlighting the importance of compassion and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to foster a helping attitude and understand the value of supporting friends and neighbors in times of need.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The book touches on the impact of human activity on natural disasters, subtly teaching children the importance of environmental stewardship.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to engage in environmentally friendly practices such as recycling and conservation, promoting a healthier planet.