1. Plate Tectonics Webquest

2. Introduction
Almost all of the processes that shape our Earth are effected by what is going on deep under the crust. The formation of volcanos is evidence that the inside of the earth is not just solid rock, and the growth of mountains implies immense forces at work to push mountains so high. In fact, the movement of material in the Earth even affects the weather that we have. Some scientist believe that life would not be possible on Earth if it were not for the activity going on miles beneath our feet.

3. Task
As residents of Earth, it is our responsibility to know how this world works. Fortunately, scientist for years have been studying it and many have put their results on the internet. For your task, search the internet using the links provided and any sites that you find yourself to answer the folloing questions. Remember, as a resident of Earth it is your resposibility to know how Earth works, and how to live with this dynamic planet. At the completion of this webquest you should be able to:
Explain the theory of plate tectonics
Indicate some of the evidence that supports the theory of plate tectonics
Explain how plate tectonics has shaped the surface of the Earth
Determine what kind of plate boundary a given location has
Describe the driving force for plate movement
Explain some of the ways that plate tectonics affect humanity

4. Process
Use the website links provided, or any others you want, and answer the following questions. Each group of questions has a recommended website link to search for the answers. Once you have found an answer jump to a word processor on your computer and type out the answer. For each answer that you used a website for, also type the website where you found the answer. Well what are you waiting for...geologize!!!

5. Rubric Points Possible Points Received
Student has completely answered each question. 32
Student's answers are given in well-developed, complete sentences.
Student has given where they found the information in each of their answers. 16
Student's answers are typed. 5
Extra credit 3
Student not wondering on computer during class time devoted for webquest. 2
Total (out of 77) 90

6. 1. What evidence did Alfred Wagner use to support his theory of continental drift?
2. Why do you think people didn't believe continental drift theory when Wagner first explained it?
3. Who were the two scientist that brought forth supporting evidence to Wagner's theroy, and what was their evidence?
(Recommended link for questions 1-3) Alfred Wagner
(cool animation) Continental Drift

7. 4. What are the three different types of plate boundaries, describe each type?
5. Give an example of a location on Earth where each type of plate boundary is present (ex. San Andres Fault – Transform).
6. What are the three different types of convergent plate boundaries?
7. Give an example of a location on Earth where each type of convergent plate boundaries occurs.
8. Explain what plate tectonics and ocean trenches have in common?
(Recommended link for questions 4-8) Plate boundaries

8. 9. How old are the rocks off the east coast of North America relative to the rocks right along the mid atlantic ridge, why do you think this is the case?
(Recommended link for question 9) Sea-floor spreading  
10. What is a convection current or cell, describe how it works (use a picture if you want)?
11. What are the two main souces of heat inside the Earth?
(Recommended link for questions 10-11) Convection

9. 12. What types of tectonic forces create mountains?
13. What are horsts and grabens, and where can they be found?
14. Describe how the mountains across the Utah and Nevada were formed?
No recommended link for questions Search on your own.

10. 15. What are two bad things that can happen as a result of plate tectonics, how did plate tectonics cause these events?
16. What are three good things that plate tectonics provide for humans, how do plate tectonics provide these things?
(Recommended link for questions 15-16) Humans and Plate Tectonics

11. Extra Credit
What is the “Ring of Fire” – not the Johnny Cash version.

12. Finish Early