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Something Very Weird Is Happening to the Planet's Earthquakes; Here's Why

By: Bill McGuire
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Earth-shattering seismic events can occur away from the fault lines between tectonic plates. And there’s no easy way to predict when or where they’ll hit.

The article "Something Very Weird Is Happening to the Planet's Earthquakes; Here's Why" from BBC Science Focus discusses earthquakes that occur away from fault lines, known as intraplate earthquakes. Scientists are studying factors like ice sheet melting and deep-earth stress to understand these mysterious seismic events.
Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
3-56-89-12
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Earth and Space Science
Keywords
earthquakesintraplate earthquakesearthquake predictionseismic activitytectonic platesfault lines
A decayed Statue of Liberty floating in flood water

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 600L - 800L
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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 900-1100L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1100-1300L
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