Introduction
 
 

You are responsible for making a contribution to a time capsule that will be opened in 5 million years. The class will produce an atlas containing current geologic information and structures.
 
 

The Task
 
 

You will research the theory of plate tectonics by visiting the resources provided in this WebQuest. You will be responsible for producing an atlas of major geologic features of the Earth's surface. The atlas should contain a set of specific locations that were formed by plate movement.  Each entry should contain current information using the theory of plate tectonics. The atlas should also contain a comparison of the geologic activity of the Earth and the moon. This atlas will be used by future generations as a record of the Earth's  geologic activity.

Resources

The following sites will help you complete the WebQuest.  The sites have been arranged to help you complete each section of the quest.

Dynamic Earth

Tectonic Theory Basic Information

Plate Boundaries

Plate Boundary Animation

Map of Plates

Savage Earth

Major Plate Map

Continental Drift Animation

Ring of Fire

Moon

Moon 2
 
 

The Process
        1.   Work in groups of two.

        2.    Create a folder called Plate Tectonics and save it in your file on
                the network.

• All your work will be saved in this folder while you are working on the quest.

        4.    Complete the following assignments. Save to your folder.
                Print and hand in  hard copy.
 

•    Plate Tectonics
•    Plate Boundary Table
•    Ring of Fire
•    Plate
•    Summary
•    Moon and Earth
•    Atlas Entry


5.    Use the checklist to keep track of your assignments.
 

• Checklist.
 6.    Create your atlas entry on small poster size paper.  Your
        entry  should include information described in the Atlas Entry
        worksheet.  Your entry should include images.

Evaluation

You will be evaluated as a group by using a rubric. Examine the rubric. 

Conclusion

The theory of Plate tectonics is relatively new.  It has developed from past theories and current research.   The theory helps to explain the formation of the major geologic structures on the Earth's surface.  Geologic activity influences climate,  evolution of organisms and activities of people.

Your atlas provides an image of the Earth's surface for a small period of Earth's geologic time.