Activity Overview
When studying natural disasters, it's important for students to connect the definitions to real-world events. This project will have them researching two different disasters, one minor and one major (such as a category 1 and category 5 hurricane) and examining if and how responses change based on the size of the disaster. Students shouldn't feel limited to recent disasters - in fact you can encourage them to look into the early 20th century for their projects.
Students can choose their own type of natural disaster, but the instructions on the worksheet are designed for students to draw their disaster type out of a bag or box so it's randomly assigned. This helps distribute types of disasters across the classroom and saves you from assigning students one to research. However, you can change the instructions on the worksheet prior to printing.
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy the worksheet into your teacher account. While you can choose to assign this to students on Storyboard That, the worksheet is made to be printed out! Feel free to edit any of it as desired to ask additional questions or provide different instructions. Once you've finished, save and print!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
- Research two different natural disasters from history.
- Complete the worksheet using complete sentences.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
When studying natural disasters, it's important for students to connect the definitions to real-world events. This project will have them researching two different disasters, one minor and one major (such as a category 1 and category 5 hurricane) and examining if and how responses change based on the size of the disaster. Students shouldn't feel limited to recent disasters - in fact you can encourage them to look into the early 20th century for their projects.
Students can choose their own type of natural disaster, but the instructions on the worksheet are designed for students to draw their disaster type out of a bag or box so it's randomly assigned. This helps distribute types of disasters across the classroom and saves you from assigning students one to research. However, you can change the instructions on the worksheet prior to printing.
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy the worksheet into your teacher account. While you can choose to assign this to students on Storyboard That, the worksheet is made to be printed out! Feel free to edit any of it as desired to ask additional questions or provide different instructions. Once you've finished, save and print!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
- Research two different natural disasters from history.
- Complete the worksheet using complete sentences.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Natural Disaster Research Worksheet
Organize student presentations on natural disasters for maximum engagement
Arrange students into small groups and assign each group a day to present their findings. Encourage the use of visuals like maps or images to help classmates understand each disaster. Conclude with a Q&A session so students can ask insightful questions and reinforce learning.
Model how to research credible sources for natural disasters
Demonstrate searching for reliable information using trusted websites such as NOAA, USGS, or National Geographic. Show how to evaluate a source’s accuracy by checking publication dates and author credentials. Explain why using multiple sources leads to a stronger project.
Guide students to compare the impact of minor vs. major disasters
Help students create a simple T-chart or Venn diagram to visually contrast the effects and responses to different disaster sizes. Prompt them to list similarities and differences in community responses, damage levels, and recovery efforts. This visual tool supports critical thinking.
Encourage students to present their own disaster safety tips
Invite each student to share one practical safety strategy based on their research. Collect these tips into a class safety guide that can be displayed or sent home. This fosters real-world connections and empowers students.
Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Disaster Research Worksheet
How can I use the Natural Disaster Research Worksheet in my classroom?
The Natural Disaster Research Worksheet can be used as a printable activity where students research two different natural disasters—one minor and one major—and compare responses to each. Simply assign or let students randomly draw disaster types, then have them complete the worksheet using full sentences. You can edit the worksheet before printing to fit your lesson needs.
What are some examples of minor and major natural disasters for students to research?
Examples of minor natural disasters include a category 1 hurricane, small earthquakes, or localized floods. Major disasters could be a category 5 hurricane, the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, or the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Encourage students to explore both recent and historical events.
What is the purpose of assigning different types of disasters randomly to students?
Randomly assigning disaster types ensures a variety of research topics across the class, prevents overlap, and saves teachers time on manual assignments. It also encourages students to learn about disasters they may not be familiar with.
Can I edit the Natural Disaster Research Worksheet before printing?
Yes, you can edit the worksheet to add, remove, or change questions and instructions before printing. This allows you to tailor the activity to your specific curriculum or student needs.
Why is it important for students to compare responses to minor and major disasters?
Comparing responses helps students understand how disaster size affects preparedness, response, and recovery. It builds critical thinking as they analyze the scale of impact and differing strategies used in various situations.
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