When faults move

Today we simulated faults moving by apply force to move blocks that were attatched with velcro. Your data should have shown that more force was needed to move the block when friction was increased. No friction - then the block moved much easier.

Homework! Finish questions from the fault activity

Heating things up

By now you should be able to explain that the continents were once all together and that the ocean floor is spreading in some places. Now you can explain why this is all possible- CONVECTION! The same idea that causes wind and ocean currents can now explain what causes earthquakes and volcanoes. To understand this better we modeled convection currents using a special liquid and a candle.

We also made a study tool for tomorrow's notes on the layers of the Earth. If you did not finish you will have time to complete after your quiz.

QUIZ TOMORROW- Study pgs 24, 25, 27 and 29

Yesterday we started looking at evidence that the continents were once connected into one giant landmass. To do this we plotted fossils found on various continents, including Antartica. Today we discussed how this could have happened IF the continents were never joined. There were some creative responses- inlcluding plants that could swim and the popular alien idea.

Through this activity we were able to understand that the only possible explanation is that the continents were once one landmass. We still don't have the why/how they separated. That will come Monday!

Finish up your supercontinent and questions for homework.

Need some practice?

I found these links while cruising the web. They will give you some practice for your upcoming test!

Plate Tectonic Quiz from McDougal Littell
Plate Tectonic Practice Test
Glencoe Online Practice Quiz

Earthquake patterns

In class we completed Inquiry 13.1. We discovered there are three major areas prone to earthquakes: Circum-Pacific Belf (the Ring of Fire), Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and the Mediterranean-Himalayan Belt. Most earthquakes occur along plate boundaries.

For homework tonight use the World Plate Map given to you in class and complete the questions.


All missing/make up work is due by Wednesday, November 11.


You will be having a quiz on Thursday on continental drift vocab. Be sure to reveiw your notes!

Fossil evidence

In class we worked on plotting 4 pieces of fossil evidence. We will use this data on Monday to help explain why the fossils are so widespread. If you did not finish in class, complete over the weekend. Be sure to come up with 3 explanations as to why the Glossopteris (plant) was found in different regions. Keep in mind, these are ancient fossils that we are looking at.

Also MOS logs are due by Wednesday!