Problem Based Learning

Landslide Alert:
Is it safe to build?

Due to the enormous growth in population of the El Paso area, there is a high demand for building new homes. Builders of America, a local construction company, would like to construct a series of new homes around the perimeter of the existing westside King's Hill Apartments. Builders of America claims the new homes will be able to accomodate 75 families. These homes will have great views of the city and easy access to shopping, schools, restaurants, etc. The construction company's president chose this area because, "There seems to be a lot of land left on top of that mesa that is not being used."

Area citizens are concerned with these plans. "The apartment complex itself is already headed for a major landslide- just like the ones in California," said Luisa Ramirez, westside resident.

Laguna Beach Landslide, Los Angeles June, 2005, Photo/Nick Ut

As mentioned before, the apartments are bulit upon a mesa in the Franklin Mountains. To see an aerial view of the existing King's Hill Apartment complex click here. Some are worried that homes built here may not last for long, and could end up getting destroyed by a landslide such as this one in Japan. Could we really have a lanslide in El Paso?

Attention Building Inspectors:
Your task is to determine whether or not it is safe to build these homes.

Many believe that the destruction and danger to humans caused by landslides is preventable. Read ABC News article for more details. As El Paso building inspectors, you must decide if it is safe for homes to be built next to King's Hill apartment complex. In order to justify your final response, the city of El Paso is requiring details for the following inquiries:

What are some causes of landslides?
What geologic processes can be linked to landslides?
What conditions are neccesary for a landslide to occur?
What types of landslides exist?
What can be expected in the aftermath of a landslide?

Your final analysis is to be concluded and ready for submission two weeks from today. Your teacher will serve as a facilitator to assist you with your task.

Activity 1 | Activity 2 | Activity 3

Bonham Elementary EPISD

For further information or comments, please contact hclick@utep.edu .