G10-Week 1-3 Worksheet
G10-Week 1-3 Worksheet
G10-Week 1-3 Worksheet
3. Compare the map of the world today (such as the real-time earthquake map) to a map of the world
250 million years ago (called Pangaea). Use the interactive continental drift map to watch the change
in the Earth’s landforms over millions of years.
As you watch the animation, record at least three examples of how the continents have changed
their positions over time.
Answers will vary. Expect students to describe how some landforms started as one mass and have
separated, or how other landmasses have moved to different locations.
If the plates continue to move in this pattern, draw a sketch of what the world might look like 250
million years in the future.
Sketches will vary. Grade sketches based on logic and completeness.
4. Explain: Navigate back to the Earthquakes Living Lab main page and click on the second and fourth
links titled, “What is the theory of plate tectonics? What evidence supports the theory of plate
tectonics?” and general information on plate tectonics. Explore more about the theory. Read the
background information and answer the following questions:
Earthquakes Living Lab: The Theory of Plate Tectonics Activity—Worksheet Example Answers 1
Name: ________________________________________________ Date: ______________________ Class: _________________
5. What might have caused the continents to move? (Hint: What is the name of this theory?)
Plate tectonics and their drifting
Earthquakes Living Lab: The Theory of Plate Tectonics Activity—Worksheet Example Answers 2
Name: ________________________________________________ Date: ______________________ Class: _________________
8. Looking at the information you compiled in your chart above, explain one way the theory of plate
tectonics can relate to engineering.
Examples will vary. Expect students to say something about how engineers must understand the
processes that shape the Earth in order to design safe structures that are able to withstand powerful
natural events. This especially applies to construction projects located near active faults and
coastlines where the release of seismic wave energy can damage and destroy human-made structures.
Engineers must understand the properties and movement of the Earth’s crust in order to design
adequate foundations for structures. Often, their designs include extra factors of safety to account for
the anticipated forces from natural events like earthquakes and volcano eruptions.
9. Evaluate: In the early 1900s Alfred Wegener proposed the continents were “drifting.” The scientific
community did not support his theory due to a lack of scientific evidence. Using what you learned in
this activity, would you support Wegener’s hypothesis or not? Write a two-paragraph essay that
explains your position.
Earthquakes Living Lab: The Theory of Plate Tectonics Activity—Worksheet Example Answers 3