Format
1. This program begins with an overview of plate tectonics, specifically centered around the Pacific plate.
2. We define the Ring of Fire, and talk about Alaska's position in this geology including how glaciers might affect our volcanoes.
3. Students then review the evidence and mechanics of convergent, divergent, and transform boundaries. We are looking for which direction the Pacific plate is moving.
4. Students examine the "hot spot" theory and the creation of the Hawaiian Islands.
5. Students then use the age of sea mounts in the Gulf of Alaska to estimate how fast the Pacific plate is moving.
6. We then offer a brief history of volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis in Alaska, as well as their effects.
Objectives
Students will be able to:
• Locate the Ring of Fire on a map or globe.
• Give reasons for prolific volcanic and seismic activity around the Ring of Fire.
• Describe the basic elements of the theory of plate tectonics, including convergent, divergent and transform plate boundaries.
• Explain how plate tectonics can influence the ocean floor and shorelines.
• Calculate the approximate direction and speed of the Pacific plate's migration.
Standards Alignment
National Standards
National Academic Science Standards (grades 5-8)
Science as inquiry
• Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
• Understandings about scientific inquiry
Physical Science
• Motions and forces
Life Science
• Diversity and adaptations of organisms
Earth and Space Science
• Structure of the earth system
• Earth's history
Science and Technology
• Understandings about science and technology
Science in Personal and Social Perspectives
• Natural hazards
• Science and technology in society
• Changes in environments
History and Nature of Science
• Science as a human endeavor
• History of science