With everyday use, structures must withstand the forces of compression, tension, torsion, and shear. Most of the time, these forces act on structures within normal limits. Take compression, for example. Roofs in northern climates must bear the weight of frequent snows. They must also resist being torn apart on a windy day. However, what about the snow and wind created by a blizzard? During a severe storm, roofs may be pulled loose by the wind or collapse under the snow’s weight.
Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, landslides, extreme heat, and earthquakes affect various parts of the United States. Structures built in those areas must usually meet standards specified in local building codes that address these dangers. No building is likely to stand up to the very strongest storms or earthquakes. However, some communities want structures built as strong as current technology can make them. The structures are built using techniques called “disaster construction.”
Are there any limits on disaster construction? Should every house be built to maximum strength? Why or why not? Going on this WebQuest may help you form an opinion.
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For this WebQuest, your job is to investigate ways in which structures can be built or modified to withstand earthquakes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters. To demonstrate what you have learned, you will answer the questions included here. You will also complete one of the activities described at the end of this WebQuest.
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Read through the following questions. Then research the Internet resources that are provided for you. As you explore the sites, look for answers to the questions. Keep a record of any sites where you find answers by noting the title and URL (Internet address). For example:
(title) Technology Student Association
(URL) www.tsaweb.org
- What provides the best protection for windows and doors against hurricane-force winds?
- Which components of wood frame construction are important to resisting the forces of earthquakes?
- Earthquake-resistant structures use ductile materials. What is ductility? Why would it be important during an earthquake?
- Which type of roof is more resistant to wind, a hip roof or a gable roof? Why?
- A tornado would be classified as which type of load on a structure?
- The Richter Scale measures which type of disaster?
- According to the Saffir-Simpson Scale used to rate hurricanes, during which category of hurricanes does damage to buildings first occur? Which is the category used for the most severe storms?
- Techniques probably exist today for building a house that would survive the strongest hurricane. In your opinion, should all houses in areas affected by hurricanes be built this way? Give reasons for your opinion.
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Visit the Web sites listed here to find information that will enable you to answer the questions. You may use additional sites if you wish. Be sure to keep a record of any sites you use.
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Several activities are described below. Complete one of these activities (your choice) to demonstrate the understandings you’ve gained by going on this WebQuest.
- Using a portable fan and models, design and carry out a demonstration of the effects of wind on two different buildings with the same surface area. One building should be tall and the other long and low. Determine what kind of force is at work.
- Design and draw the plans for or make a model of an emergency storm shelter to be used for residents of a mobile home park. Indicate any special materials or techniques you recommend be used to build the structure.
- Research and write an article for the
school newspaper
on the type of disaster construction used in your community. Indicate how your school’s construction meets those needs. If you need assistance, contact your local building department or look at a copy of the building code.
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