Earthquakes (junior)

Where can I find information about earthquakes?

(Years 1-4)

Colour photo of Fitzgerald Avenue in Christchurch after an earthquake. There are large cracks on the road and rubble in the background. — *Image: Fitzgerald Avenue 94 by Schwede66 on Wikimedia Commons.*

Entry last updated: 18/08/23

Introduction

An earthquake is when the ground shakes. Earthquakes are caused when parts of the earth called plates move against each other. An earthquake is a type of natural disaster. It may cause damage to buildings or to the ground. In this article we will look at websites and books to help you learn more about earthquakes.

General websites

Here are some websites that have more information about earthquakes.

Elementary (Gale In Context)

Elementary is one of the EPIC databases. It has information that is great for young students.

Enter the word 'earthquakes' into the search bar.
Go to Earthquakes.
Select Keep reading or explore around the page to learn more about what happens in an earthquake.

Tips: To get to the EPIC resources you will need a password from your school librarian first. Or you can chat with one of our AnyQuestions librarians between 1 and 6pm Monday to Friday and they will help you online. Some EPIC databases may also be available through your public library.

Britannica School Primary

Britannica School is another EPIC database.

Search for 'earthquakes'.
Go to earthquake (geological event).
There's a video you can watch on this page.

Tips: To get to the EPIC resources you will need a password from your school librarian first. Or you can chat with one of our AnyQuestions librarians between 1 and 6pm Monday to Friday and they will help you online. Some EPIC databases may also be available through your public library.

Te Ara

Te Ara is a website with lots of information about New Zealand topics.

Enter the keyword 'earthquakes' into the search bar.
Select earthquakes from the results.
Explore the page to find out more about earthquakes in New Zealand.

Tips: We like sites like this because they’re reliable. You can tell because of their web address – they have either .govt or .ac, meaning they are from government or educational organisations. They’re also New Zealand sites, so relevant for us.