新西兰英语 450 After-shocks continue in Christchurch

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　　Since the big earthquake on September 4th last year, the province of Canterbury has had 7350 after-shocks but most of them have been small; however there have been 230 after-shocks of 4.0 or more and 30 after-shocks bigger than 5.0.

　　Geologists² have been busy mapping the land and the sea near Christchurch. New technology can help them find some hidden faults. However, they do not know if these faults will cause an earthquake. The other technology used by geologists is the computer. These people look at statistics³ from similar earthquakes around the world and then tell us what we can expect to come. Right now, geologists are telling us there is a 30% chance of another big one – at least 6.0 – in the next year.

　　These after-shocks affect damaged buildings which often suffer more damage. They also affect people who have become more worried and nervous. It is hard for children too. Many of them are frightened.

　　Grammar

　　Note the present perfect tense which is used to show something that started in the past (Since the big earthquake) but continues today e.g. has had 7350 after-shocks; have been small; have become more worried. The progressive⁴ form – have been mapping – gives the idea of actively⁵ working over the period.

　　Many adjectives⁶ have two forms – one for the person affected⁷ and one for the thing that affects them e.g. people are worried – earthquakes are worrying; children are frightened – earthquakes are frightening; buildings are damaged – earthquakes are damaging.

　　Question

　　What can parents and teachers do to help frightened children?

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