Geosphere: Plate Tectonics

 

Plate Tectonics

Plate Tectonics

In this activity students use various large-scale data sets (earthquakes, volcanoes, bathymetry, etc.) to follow the evidence in building the theory of plate tectonics. Learn more

Plate Tectonics (Magnetic Field)

Plate Tectonics (Magnectic Field)

Magnetic stripes on the seafloor was the elusive evidence that solidified Plate Tectonics as a valid scientific concept. Student use the magnetic field sensor and small magnets to reproduce this evidence. Learn more

Plate Tectonics

See the evidence for plate tectonics and the way plate movement affects our Earth.

Plate Tectonics

Earthquakes and Volcanoes clearly mark the boundaries of tectonic plates. What else can we tell from earthquakes? Let your students do the investigating. Enlarge image.

Summary:

In this activity, students will be observing several different types of data in order to expose them to the evidence that supports the theory of plate tectonics developed by Alfred Wegener.

Students will use their critical thinking skills to create and support a theory that corroborates the concept of plate tectonics, as well as continental drift, using the provided data as evidence for plate movement.

Students will also explore fossil and glacier deposits, elevation and bathymetry, sea floor age, earthquakes, and volcanoes as evidence of plate tectonics.

Download this free activity now:

Plate Tectonics (11.3 MB,.zip file)

(Please note this is a .zip file which contains My World GIS project file and documentation.)

Here's what you need:

My World GIS is a Geographic Information System (GIS) designed by educators specifically for learning with a GIS--not about a GIS. It is a powerful mapping and analytical tool that provides visual representation of data in a geographic context.

PASCO offers a variety of licensing options for K-12 and University students.

See the product description and licensing options.

Plate Tectonics - (Magnetic Field)

Students investigate natural magnetism in mineral magnetite and in turn, learn how natural magnetism was used as evidence for plate tectonics.

Plate Tectonics

Notice the "symmetry" about the center of the graph. How does this compare to the sea floor? Enlarge graph.

Lab Summary:

In this activity students will gain an understanding of the mechanism of plate tectonics and sea floor spreading.

Students will first investigate the magnetism of rocks and minerals as well as a bar magnet. Then they will construct a model ocean floor using a shoe box and magnets, and measure the "bands" with the magnetic field sensor.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 689 KB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 80 KB)

Method:

Use a Magnetic Field Sensor to investigate magnetism.

Plate Tectonics

Visual model of magnetic stripes in the sea floor created over geologic time by the reversal of Earth’s magnetic field. In this lab students model the actual measurements of the sea floor conducted by scientists.

Here's What You Need:

Required for computer-based lab:

(See lab download for Xplorer GLX-based lab requirements, which may differ)

Probeware

Other Materials

  • Magnetic Stripping Model
  • Magnetite
  • Alnico Bar Magnet
  • Protective Gear
  • Iron Filings

Lab Manual:

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Earth and Environmental Science (PS-2809). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Earth and Environmental Science with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2821A). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Earth and Environmental Science Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Earth and Environmental Science Lab Manual and Bundles