In order to develop compassionate citizens about natural disasters, I would have students research a natural disaster that occurred in our state, the eruption of Mt. St. Helens. I would have them research the lives lost, the devastation left behind, and how many people were affected by the eruption. I would also have them research the possibility of another eruption, either at Mt. St. Helens or Mt. Rainier. How would such an eruption impact them? What kind of assistance might we need here in Moses Lake?
This activity could also lead into the study of earthquakes and plate tectonics since we live along the Ring of Fire. Knowing that these disasters could occur where we live should increase students' sensitivity when disasters strike in other areas.
