Our Earth is in an active planet that is in continuous motion. As such, the Earth's natural ongoing processes release incredible amounts of energy that affect its interior as well as exterior. It is when humans get in the way of these processes that natural disasters are fatal, and produce numerous financial and tragic consequences.
Throughout the history of mankind, humans have attempted to make sense of their environment and Earth's processes. Therefore, different cultures have attempted to explain natural forces by means close to their understanding. Thus, the origin of myths and legends was based in those interpretations. Continuous scientific progress has brought us closer to the understanding of how natural forces are part of Earth's and the Universe's ongoing processes.
In order to understand the role that these natural processes affect Earth and our environment, we need to study how the universe was formed and how, as if were a living organism, the Earth is changing and in constant evolution causing natural disasters that are part of a normal process.
Essential investigative questions
What are the similarities and differences between manmade and natural disasters?
How have different cultures explained the onset of natural disasters throughout history?
In what direct and indirect ways do natural disasters affect our society?
Can we control nature?
Materials and resources
Computer, pencil, dictionary, writing paper, list of websites (see Electronic Resources), flip chart, different myths and legends, vocabulary worksheet