1. Plate Tectonics What are the names of the major tectonic plates? Which plate carries the United States? Which plates are adjacent to that plate and could have an effect on it? Use websites for assistance http://www.extremescience.com/PlateTectonicsmap.htm http://www.extremescience.com/PlateTectonicsmap.htm http://geology.er.usgs.gov/eastern/plates.html

2. Earthquakes Which state experiences the most earthquakes? Which state comes in second? Which states experience the fewest earthquakes? Which states experience none? How many earthquakes are experienced in North Carolina? What is the relationship between plate tectonics and earthquake?

3. Earthquakes Earthquake Hazards Program: The top Earthquake States Use websites for assistance http://neic.usgs.gov/neis/states/top_states.html

4. Volcanoes Where is the Ring of Fire? Why is it called the Ring of Fire?? What geologic events occur here more frequently than any other place on Earth? Why? How is this geologic activity related to plate tectonics?

5. Volcano Websites The Earth’s Ring of Fire http://news.bcc.co.uk/1hi/sci/tech/136248.stm Savage Earth http://pbs.org/wnet/savageearth/ USGS: Active Volcanoes, Plate Tectonics, and the Ring of Fire http://vulcan.wrusgs.gov/Glossary/PlateTectonics/map_ plate_tectonics_world.html

6. READ http://kids.earth.nasa.gov/archive/pangaea/conclusion. html Why does the shape of the earth’s oceans and continents continue to change? What is happening to the Atlantic Ocean? The Pacific? What continent will eventually connect with Europe?

7. READ Continued… Why will the Himalayas increase in height? In what direction is the west coast of the United States (specifically California) moving? About how long will it take for California to collide with Alaska? In 200 million years or so, what continent will be within easy reach of our Pacific coast?

8. Project Imagine that you are scientists who must provide support for the theory of plate tectonics. In a written report, summarize the supporting evidence you have found through fossil evidence as well as exploration of the ocean floor and the Ring of Fire region. You must include sketches, drawing, maps, and present.

9. Rubric 3 points: Students conducted all required research and gathered the requested information; were attentive and highly engaged in class discussions; prepared a well-written report and oral presentation that demonstrated clear understanding of the topic. 2 points: Students conducted most of the required research and gathered sufficient information to engage in class discussions; participated in class discussions; prepared a written report and oral presentation that demonstrated adequate understanding of the topic.

10. Rubric Continued 1 point: Students conducted less than half of the required research, gathering insufficient information for class discussions; participated minimally in class discussions; prepared an inadequate report and/or oral presentation.