Plate TectonicsWhat are the names of the major tectonic plates?Which plate carries the United States?Which plates are adjacent to that plate and could

have an effect on it?Use websites for assistance

http://www.extremescience.com/PlateTectonicsmap.htm

http://geology.er.usgs.gov/eastern/plates.html

EarthquakesWhich state experiences the most

earthquakes?Which state comes in second?Which states experience the fewest

earthquakes?Which states experience none?How many earthquakes are experienced in

North Carolina?What is the relationship between plate

tectonics and earthquake?

EarthquakesEarthquake Hazards Program: The top

Earthquake StatesUse websites for assistancehttp://neic.usgs.gov/neis/states/top_states.html

VolcanoesWhere is the Ring of Fire?Why is it called the Ring of Fire??What geologic events occur here more

frequently than any other place on Earth? Why?

How is this geologic activity related to plate tectonics?

Volcano WebsitesThe Earth’s Ring of Firehttp://news.bcc.co.uk/1hi/sci/tech/136248.stm

Savage Earthhttp://pbs.org/wnet/savageearth/

USGS: Active Volcanoes, Plate Tectonics, and the Ring of Fire

http://vulcan.wrusgs.gov/Glossary/PlateTectonics/map_plate_tectonics_world.html

READhttp://kids.earth.nasa.gov/archive/pangaea/

conclusion.htmlWhy does the shape of the earth’s oceans and

continents continue to change? What is happening to the Atlantic Ocean? The Pacific? What continent will eventually connect with

Europe?

READ Continued…Why will the Himalayas increase in height? In what direction is the west coast of the

United States (specifically California) moving?

About how long will it take for California to collide with Alaska?

In 200 million years or so, what continent will be within easy reach of our Pacific coast?

ProjectImagine that you are scientists who must

provide support for the theory of plate tectonics. In a written report, summarize the supporting evidence you have found through fossil evidence as well as exploration of the ocean floor and the Ring of Fire region. You must include sketches, drawing, maps, and present.

Rubric3 points: Students conducted all required research

and gathered the requested information; were attentive and highly engaged in class discussions; prepared a well-written report and oral presentation that demonstrated clear understanding of the topic.

• 2 points: Students conducted most of the required research and gathered sufficient information to engage in class discussions; participated in class discussions; prepared a written report and oral presentation that demonstrated adequate understanding of the topic.

Rubric Continued1 point: Students conducted less than half of

the required research, gathering insufficient information for class discussions; participated minimally in class discussions; prepared an inadequate report and/or oral presentation.