921 Earthquake | Elementary ESL Reading Worksheet PDF

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The 921 earthquake happened on September 21, 1999, in Taiwan. It started at 1:47 in the morning, when most people were sleeping. The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.6. It was one of the biggest and most powerful earthquakes in Taiwan’s history.

The earthquake began in central Taiwan, near a small town called Jiji. The ground shook very strongly for about 40 seconds. Buildings moved, and some roads broke apart. Many people woke up frightened and ran outside into the dark streets.

這 損害 was very serious. More than 100,000 homes were destroyed or badly broken. Many schools, bridges, and roads were also ruined. Some tall buildings began to collapse and fall down. More than 2,400 people lost their lives, and many thousands more were hurt.

After the earthquake, rescue workers came quickly to help. Soldiers, firefighters, and volunteers searched for people under fallen buildings day and night. Other countries also sent teams to help Taiwan. Many survivors were found alive under the rubble. People around the world sent food, water, and medicine to help.

Taiwan slowly rebuilt after the earthquake. The government and people worked hard together to repair homes and schools. September 21 is now a special day in Taiwan. People remember those who died and learn about staying safe during earthquakes. Taiwan built stronger buildings to prepare for future earthquakes.

1. earthquake ____
2. magnitude ____
3. shake ____
4. damage ____
5. collapse ____
6. rescue ____
7. survivors ____
8. rubble ____
9. volunteer ____
10. rebuild ____

• a. sudden, violent shaking of the ground
• b. number that shows how strong an earthquake is
• c. people who stay alive after something terrible happens
• d. to move quickly back and forth
• e. person who helps others without being paid
• f. to save someone from danger
• g. to fall down suddenly
• h. broken pieces of buildings after they fall down
• i. harm or injury done to something
• j. to build something again after it is destroyed