Plate Tectonics
The lab activity described here was created by the
Discover Our Earth (more info) team at Cornell University. This Starting Point page was organized by
Robert MacKay, Clark College Physics and Meteorology.
Summary
Students explore the theory of plate tectonics and related phenomena using the The Quick Earth Study Tool interactive mapping and data analysis environment. This "Plate Tectonics" learning module is part of the Discover Our Earth project at Cornell University. The Discover Our Earth project provides a variety of resources designed to help students learn about Earth science.
Learning Goals
To understand what tectonic plates are and their relationship to continental drift and earthquakes.
To explore the relationship between the Mid Atlantic Ridge and continental drift.
To use data to deduce the shape and attributes of plates and their boundaries.
Use data and visualization tools to answer questions related to Plate Tectonics.
Practice writing skills by writing short answers and paragraphs to answer data related questions.
Context for Use
Part or all of this activity can be used in an introductory geoscience course that includes a discussion of Plate Tectonics. For example, the first several parts through Sea Floor Spreading would be useful in a course on Earth's Climate and the complete activity is appropriate for an introductory geology course.
Teaching Materials
The Complete "Plate Tectonic" learning module is located at:
Discover our Earth Plate Tectonics Module (more info)
Teaching Notes and Tips
This could be used as either a lab or a homework assignment. It takes 2 to 4 hours to complete and is appropriate for students with minimal mathematics skills. The QUEST mapping tool could be used for interactive lecture or demonstration with real data.
Assessment
Evaluating student answers to activity questions is a useful assessment of student understanding. Follow-up discussions in class, essay questions on exams, and the future success of students on other related activities are also useful measures of student understanding.
References and Resources
The Educational Multimedia Visualization Center (more info) at UC Santa Barbara has some good Quicktime Video clips related to plate tectonics as well as other useful information and links for teachers.
PBS Plate Tectonic from PBS is an interactive online activity that allows students see the results of plate movement.
Plate Tectonics Paradigm is an excellent resource from Montana State University. It includes activity questions, images, and related assessment.
The Layered Earth is also an excellent resource from Montana State University. It includes activity questions and images.
Subject
Geoscience:Geology:Structural Geology:Geophysics and Structural Geology,
Regional Structural/Tectonic Activity
Resource Type
Activities:Lab Activity
Special Interest
Visualization, GIS, GeoHazards
Ready for Use
Ready to Use
Grade Level
College Lower (13-14):Introductory Level
Earth System Topics
Solid Earth:Deformation
Topics
Solid Earth,
:Structural Geology:Geophysics and Structural Geology/Earthquakes/Seismic Reflection Profiling,
Regional Structural/Tectonic Activity, Earth surface
