Plate Tectonics Simulation --- TEACHER NOTES
OVERVIEW
Students will explore the theory of plate tectonics and demonstrate
their knowledge by creating an simulation illustrating the theory of
plate tectonics.
PREREQUISITE KNOWLEDGE:
This Learning Resource assumes the student has a basic
knowledge of the Internet, Image Creation Software.
TEACHER PREP TIME: minimal
If you have not worked with Image Creation Software before you
may want to become comfortable.
DELIVERABLES:
Students will submit their Plate Tectonics Simulation.
EVALUATION / GRADING:
Student's simulations will be evaluated using a checklist /50.
Variations on a Theme
Running short on time?
In the Steps section have students pair up.
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Plate tectonics is the geological theory that states sections of the
Earth’s crust are in constant, slow motion. When a plate moves it
affects the other plates surrounding it. As the plates move, they
collide, pull apart or grind past each other. This movement produces
spectacular changes in the Earth’s surface, including volcanoes and
mountain ranges.
For this activity, you will explore the theory of plate tectonics and
demonstrate your knowledge by creating a simulation illustrating the
theory of plate tectonics.
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A computer with access to the Internet, image creation software and
word processing software.
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/astronomy/planets/earth
/Continents.shtml
Enchanted Learning
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aso/tryit/tectonics/intro.html
PBS - Tectonics
Enchanted Learning
http://csep10.phys.utk.edu/astr161/lect/earth/tectonics.html
Plate Tectonic Animation
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aso/tryit/tectonics/#
Try the Plate Tectonics Simulator
http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/geology/tectonics.html
Berkeley – Plate Tectonic Animation
http://extremescience.com/PlateTectonicsmap.htm
Extreme Science
http://worldbook.bigchalk.com/434175.htm
Big Chalk
http://volcano.und.nodak.edu/vwdocs/vwlessons/plate_tectonics/part2
.html
The Plates
http://geology.er.usgs.gov/eastern/plates.html
Major Tectonic Plates of the World
Be sure to document the source of your Internet research.
Last Name, First Name of Author (if known). “Title of
work/article/page.” Title of Complete Document (if applicable). Date
last modified. URL (date visited).
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Use the websites listed in Resources to complete a short essay (one
page) using a word processor on Plate Tectonics.
Provide an explanation of how the plates
move and interact.
How was the theory of Plate Tectonics
developed?
What was Pangaea? Where is it now?
What are the names of the plates?
How does plate movement contribute to other geological formations
(i.e. mountains, volcanoes etc?
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In Steps, you explored the theory of plate tectonics.
Now is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge by
creating a simulation illustrating the Theory of Plate Tectonics.
Use image creation software to create your simulation demonstrating
how plates have moved to create the world we know today.
Put some thought into how you will demonstrate how the continents
move, what happens when they move, what areas of the globe are
most affected and how you will differentiate between each of the
regions.
Include images, narration and content from your essay written in
Steps.
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Your teacher will use the following checklist to mark your simulation.
Plate Tectonics
5
Use of Class Time
10
Research Thorough
5
Creativity
10
Knowledge of Image Creation Software
20
Quality of Simulation - End product
Notes:
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Organise a Plate Tectonic Exhibition with your class.
Compare and contrast your classmates work.
Invite other classes in for demonstrations.
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