Lesson Title: Plate Tectonics: The Moving Puzzle Pieces of Earth

 

Lesson Title: Plate Tectonics: The Moving Puzzle Pieces of Earth

Grade Level: 5th Grade

Learning Objectives:

• Students will be able to explain the theory of plate tectonics.
• Students will be able to identify the different types of plate boundaries.
• Students will be able to describe the landforms and geologic features that are associated with plate tectonics.
• Students will be able to explain how plate tectonics can cause natural disasters.

Materials:

• World map
• Diagram of Earth's layers
• Markers or crayons
• Online game: Plate Tectonics Puzzle (National Geographic Kids)

Procedure:

1. Begin by reviewing the different layers of Earth. Discuss how the crust is the outermost layer and is made up of solid rock.
2. Introduce the concept of plate tectonics. Explain that the crust is broken up into large pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are constantly moving over the Earth's mantle, the layer of hot, molten rock beneath the crust.
3. Have students use markers or crayons to draw the major tectonic plates on a world map.
4. Discuss the different types of plate boundaries. These are:

• Convergent boundaries: where two plates collide
• Divergent boundaries: where two plates move away from each other
• Transform boundaries: where two plates slide past each other

5. Explain how the movement of tectonic plates can cause landforms and geologic features. For example, convergent boundaries can create mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes. Divergent boundaries can create new ocean floor. Transform boundaries can create faults.
6. Show students examples of landforms and geologic features that are associated with plate tectonics. For example, the Himalayas were created by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. The Hawaiian Islands were created by volcanic activity at a hotspot. The San Andreas Fault is a transform boundary that runs along the coast of California.
7. Have students play the online game Plate Tectonics Puzzle (National Geographic Kids). This game will help them to learn more about the different tectonic plates and how they move.

Assessment:

• Have students create a diagram of the different types of plate boundaries.
• Have students write a short paragraph explaining how plate tectonics can cause natural disasters.
• Have students label the major tectonic plates on a world map.

Extension Activities:

• Have students research a specific landform or geologic feature that is associated with plate tectonics.
• Have students create a model of a plate boundary.
• Have students debate the pros and cons of living in an area that is prone to earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

 Online Game 

Game: Plate Tectonics Puzzle

Opens in a new window planeta42.com

Plate Tectonics Puzzle game

Description: In this game, students will use their knowledge of plate tectonics to assemble a puzzle of the Earth's continents. The puzzle is divided into pieces that represent the different tectonic plates. Students will need to match the shapes of the plates and the features on them in order to correctly assemble the puzzle.

Learning Objectives:

• Students will be able to identify the different tectonic plates.
• Students will be able to explain how the movement of tectonic plates can create mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
• Students will be able to use their knowledge of plate tectonics to solve problems.

How to Play:

1. Drag and drop the puzzle pieces into the correct positions.
2. Use the map of the Earth as a guide.
3. Pay attention to the shapes of the plates and the features on them.
4. When you think you have the puzzle correctly assembled, click the "Check" button.

Variations:

• For a more challenging game, students can be given a time limit to complete the puzzle.
• Students can be asked to research specific tectonic plates and share what they have learned with the class.
• Students can be asked to create their own puzzles using different maps or representations of the Earth.

Benefits:

• This game is a fun and engaging way for students to learn about plate tectonics.
• The game helps students to develop their problem-solving skills.
• The game helps students to visualize the movement of tectonic plates.

Extension Activities:

• Have students research the different types of plate boundaries and create a presentation to share with the class.
• Have students create a model of the Earth's interior, showing the different layers and how they interact with each other.
• Have students write a short story about a journey that takes them across different tectonic plates.