Download Earth Science Name Web Inquiry—Plate Tectonics/Earth`s Interior

Earth Science
Name ___________________________
Web Inquiry—Plate Tectonics/Earth’s Interior
Date ____________________________
Standards: S6E5 Students will investigate the scientific view of how the earth’s surface is formed.
a. Compare and contrast the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core, including temperature, density, and
composition.
d. Describe processes that change rocks and the surface of the earth.
e. Recognize that lithospheric plates constantly move and cause major geological events on the earth’s
surface.
f. Explain the effects of physical processes (plate tectonics, erosion, deposition, volcanic eruption, gravity)
on geological features including oceans (composition, currents, and tides).
g. Describe how fossils show evidence of the changing surface and climate of the earth.
I. Access this link http://www.geo.cornell.edu/hawaii/220/PRI/PRI_PT_home.html
Explore the areas of this site. Look at the maps where earthquakes have occurred and where land features along
plate boundaries are located. Be sure to watch the convection video at Plate Motion. Name some volcanoes
formed at hot spots.
II. Access this link http://www.divediscover.whoi.edu/anatomy/index.html
1. Explore Earth’s Anatomy. Record any new facts/information you discover about each layer
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2. From the pull down tab at the top, access “Dive into Deeper Discovery” and begin the interactive for
Mid-Ocean Ridges. Be sure to view Magnetics and the Axial. Look for Alvin. What are some features
near the mid-ocean ridge?
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What are some lifeforms surviving in this area?
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3. Explore the Plate Tectonics Theory interactive. Watch the breakup of Pangaea. Identify the plate
boundary types by the plate movement.
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What other mountains have been created by plates?
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III. On your own, explore this PBS site: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/savageearth/index.html
There are a number of animations to view, including earthquakes, volcanoes, faults, and subduction.