SAMPLE ANSWERS

Building a shelter

• What are the threats in your area that could cause you to lose your house or roof?
  • In my area, strong storms sometimes damage roofs and knock down trees.
  • We live near a river, so flooding is a big threat during the rainy season.
• If your house was destroyed, what would you do to build a temporary shelter?
  • I would use plastic sheets and wooden poles to make a tent.
  • I’d collect cardboard and large pieces of fabric to create a small hut.
• How would you decide where to build a shelter in an emergency?
  • I’d choose a place away from water to avoid flooding.
  • I would look for high ground to stay safe from rising water or wild animals.
• Have you ever built a shelter, like a tent? What did you learn from the experience?
  • Yes, I built a tent during a school trip. I learned that it’s important to tie the ropes tightly so the tent doesn’t fall.
  • I once built a fort at home with blankets. I learned that having a strong frame is important for keeping it stable.
• What materials would you look for if you needed to build a shelter quickly?
  • I would use tree branches, leaves, and a tarp if I had one.
  • I’d look for big pieces of cardboard and plastic to keep the rain out.
• What is the most important part of a shelter: the roof, walls, or floor? Why?
  • The roof is the most important because it protects you from rain and sun.
    I think the floor is important because it keeps you dry and safe from insects.
• Would you prefer to build a shelter alone or with others? Why?
  • I’d prefer to build it with others because it’s faster and less tiring.
  • I’d prefer to do it alone so I can focus and work the way I want.
• What would you do to make your shelter more comfortable?
  • I’d put soft leaves or blankets on the floor to sleep on.
  • I’d add extra walls to keep the wind out and make it warmer.
• Imagine you are lost in a forest. What would you use to build a shelter for the night?
  • I’d use branches to make a lean-to and cover it with big leaves for a roof.
  • I’d find a cave or fallen tree to use as a natural shelter and add leaves for bedding.

Houses

• Where do you live now? What do you like most about your home?
  • I live in a small apartment, and I like that it’s close to my school.
  • I live in a house with a garden. I love playing outside in the garden.

• If you could change one thing about your current house, what would it be?
  • I’d make it bigger so everyone has their own room.
  • I’d add solar panels to save electricity.

• Should we be saving the old buildings or building everything new?
  • We should save old buildings because they show our history.
  • It’s better to build new ones because old buildings are harder to maintain.

• What can you add to a house to make it strong and eco-friendly?
  • I’d use bamboo or recycled materials to make it eco-friendly.
  • Solar panels and rainwater tanks would make the house sustainable.
• What would you change in your house to make it strong and eco-friendly?
  • I’d replace plastic windows with ones made of bamboo or wood.
  • I’d install a water recycling system to save water.

• What do you think makes a house in a cold region different from one in a hot region?
  • Houses in cold regions have thick walls and small windows to keep the heat inside.
  • Houses in hot regions have thin walls and big windows to let in air.

• How are traditional houses (like huts or yurts) different from modern apartments?
  • Traditional houses are made from natural materials, while modern apartments use concrete and glass.
  • Traditional houses are usually smaller and don’t have things like electricity or plumbing.
• Imagine your house is in a very crowded city. How would you make it comfortable?
  • I’d create a small garden on the balcony to make it feel peaceful.
  • I’d use soundproof windows to block out the noise.

• What materials are commonly used for homes in your country? Why do you think people chose those materials?
  • In my country, people use bricks and cement because they are strong and last a long time.
  • In villages, people use mud and straw because it’s cheap and keeps the house cool.