Instructions for the Plate Tectonics Project
Objective:
To explain the theory of plate tectonics and present the information in a creative format. The project
must include and show that its creator has an understanding of the following 14 terms:
tectonic plate, lithosphere, asthenosphere, crust, mantle, outer core, inner core, divergent
boundary, convergent boundary, transform boundary, subduction, mid-ocean ridge, rift valley,
and hot spot.
Project Choices and Ideas:
1. Create a piece of art (model, sculpture, painting, drawing) on plate tectonics and include
a five paragraph explanation of your art that covers the necessary research topics. DO
NOT USE A KIT.
2. Create a mural or collage of various plate tectonic topics. This can be done on poster
board. Include a five paragraph explanation that covers the necessary research topics.
3. Create a children’s book about plate tectonics. Use creativity, pictures, and include all
necessary information.
4. Write poems about plate tectonics. You can write one long poem that includes all the
necessary information, or write several poems that focus on several topics. Work must
be typed. Include at least one picture.
5. Create a song about plate tectonics that includes all the necessary information. You must
type the lyrics to your song and then record the song.
6. Create a vodcast showing what you know about plate tectonics.
7. Create (original) an extensive plate tectonics presentation using PowerPoint or other technological
means.
8. Think of your own idea for showing what you know about plate tectonics.
Use the following checklist for consideration of information that you might want to include in
your project to convey the theory of plate tectonics clearly, and to create the best project
possible.
_____ What is the theory of plate tectonics?
_____ Who created the hypothesis of continental drift? Explain.
_____ Describe the three types of boundaries that exist.
_____ What evidence (at least three) did scientists use to prove continental drift? Explain.
_____ Explain sea-floor spreading.
_____ How does sea-floor spreading help scientists explain continental drift?
_____ Describe the type of geographical features and natural disasters that can occur at the
three types of plate boundaries
_____ Explain the formation of the Hawaiian Islands
GRADING RUBRIC TO FOLLOW