Tsunamis Explained - KS2 Comprehension and Writing Activities Pack

This unit of work is based on the article ‘Tsunamis Explained’ from issue 10 of Animal Planet magazine (included). Pupils will learn what tsunamis are and how they are created, as well as looking at simple case studies of some of the world’s most devastating tsunamis.

The article is also used to develop comprehension skills through checking pupils’ understanding of the text and to encourage them to retrieve and record information from non-fiction. It is also used to inspire writing, with the opportunity to use the information from one of the case studies and ‘Tsunamis Explained’ to write a newspaper article or write about an imagined tsunami event.

During the unit the pupils will discuss images of tsunamis, considering their impact on the areas that they devastate. They will read a series of case studies of tsunamis, learning key information about each event.

Teachers’ notes are included for each of the activities, with suggested activities to develop the unit further.

This resource pack includes:

• Copy of the Animal Planet article ‘Tsunamis Explained’
• Comprehension question cards (with answer sheet)
• Tsunami images
• Tsunami case study cards
• Planning sheet: newspaper article
• Themed writing paper - newspaper article

What is Animal Planet Magazine?

This pack has been created in association with Animal Planet magazine, which fuels curious minds, helps children make sense of the world and sparks joy on every page.

To find out more, and register your interest in a school subscription, visit https://www.animalplanetmagazine.com/schools

National Curriculum Programme of Study Links

Reading
Pupils should develop positive attitudes to reading and understanding of what they read by listening to and discussing a wide range of … non-fiction
Pupils should understand what they read by
-checking that the text makes sense to them, discussing their understanding and exploring the meaning of words in context.
- asking questions to improve their understanding of the text.
Pupils should be taught how to retrieve, record and present information from non-fiction.

Writing
Pupils should plan their writing by discussing and recording ideas (years 5 and 6 also by drawing on research where necessary)
Pupils should draft and write by
- organising paragraphs around a theme
- identifying the audience and purpose for writing, selecting the appropriate form

Geography
Human and physical geography
Describe and understand key aspects of:
physical geography, including: … volcanoes and earthquakes …

This resource is part of the Learn Through Nature, with Animal Planet Magazine collection.
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• Copy of the Animal Planet article ‘Tsunamis Explained’
• Comprehension question cards (with answer sheet)
• Tsunami images
• Tsunami case study cards
• Planning sheet: newspaper article
• Themed writing paper - newspaper article