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Ways Plate Tectonics Moves
Materials: cool-whip, graham cracker, and paper plates.
Procedure: This lab demonstrates the three ways that plate tectonics move along their
boundaries; which are transform, convergent and divergent. First begin by explain
each of the types of boundaries. Transform is when the plates move past one another
without subduction. Convergent is when the plates smash together. Divergent is when
the plates move apart from each other. Second give each student a plate, a dollop of
cool-whip, and a graham cracker. Instructed the students to break the graham cracker
in half and set both halves on top of the cool-whip. Demonstrate on your own plate of
cool-whip how plate tectonics move when their boundaries transform, are convergent,
and are divergent. Repeat this and have students do it along with you. Also have them
repeat the three boundaries. To check for understanding have students in groups
demonstrate each interaction. At the end of the experiment students should be able to
demonstrate the ways that tectonic plates interact with one another.
Other experiments: You can have students use just their hands to demonstrate the
boundaries.