How to Prepare for Earthquakes 课文结构分析(text structure analysis)

How to Prepare for Earthquakes

The essay focuses on one central theme: earthquake prediction, prevention and preparation. One characteristic writing technique that runs throughout the writing is a general statement supported by details.
    The whole passage can be divided into 4 parts:

    1. The first part of the passage is one paragraph, Paragraph 1. The general statement is how to know when an earthquake is going to happen — prediction of an earthquake. The general statement is followed and supported by details.

    2. The second part of the passage is also one paragraph, Paragraph 2. The general statement is how to prevent the great destruction of property caused by earthquakes. The general statement is followed and supported by details.

    3. The third part of the passage consists of 4 paragraphs, from Paragraph 3 to Paragraph 6. The general statement is how to prepare for the possibility of a great earthquake. The general statement has its details in 4 paragraphs, from house preparations to survival supplies, useful tools and earthquake emergency plans.

    4. The fourth part of the passage is also one paragraph, Paragraph 7. The author offers his advice as a conclusion: Even if prediction becomes possible in the future, people still have to do their best to prevent disasters by improving building structures and by being personally prepared.

    To predict when an earthquake is going to happen:
    1. Scientists have wired the Earth and sea to detect movements.
    2. People have traditionally watched animals and plants for warning signs of earthquakes. They have found that before an earthquake hens refuse to enter their cages, snakes leave their ground holes to freeze to death, quiet dogs bark a lot, fish swim near the surface of water and pigeons become noisy and fly in unusual patterns.
    3. Experimental data show that the amount of radon (Rn) in the water under the surface of the Earth waxes before an earthquake.
    Para. 1

    To prevent the great destruction of property caused by earthquakes:
    1. Many new structures are built with an I-joint, which appears to be the most durable type of joint. These joints of steel can move without breaking.
    2. Architects design buildings so that the building’s columns and horizontal beams are of equal strength, and vertical support columns are inserted deep into solid soil.
    3. Many new houses have relatively light roofs and strong walls.
    4. Concrete pillars for highway bridges that previously only had steel rods inside are now enclosed in steel.
    Para. 2

To prepare for the possibility of a great earthquake:

____________________________________________________________

Paras. 3-6

Regularly check and reinforce your homes, place heavy objects in low positions, attach cupboards and cabinets to walls, and fasten doors.
Para.3

Have supplies of water and food at home and at work. Keep survival supplies such as a radio receiver, a torch, extra batteries, first-aid supplies, a spade, a tent, some rope, and warm clothing.
Para. 4

Keep a fire extinguisher and some proper tools to turn off gas and water lines. Arrange an auxiliary cooking and heating source. Keep a pair of heavy shoes or boots to protect your feet.
Para. 5

Have earthquake emergency plans. Make arrangements in case of an earthquake for family members to leave the area in time, to meet at a place, to communicate with each other or to check in with a far-away friend.
Para. 6

  Conclusion:
    Even if prediction becomes possible, people still have to do their best to prevent disasters by improving building structures and by being personally prepared.
    Para. 7

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How to Prepare for Earthquakes 课文结构分析(text structure analysis)

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