In this learning activity we will be exploring the engine that drives the tectonic plates! Finally we are learning the HOW and WHY the tectonic plates are moving. I bet you can’t wait to tell Wegener! First you have to learn all about it so you can describe it in detail to him. We will use several resources to understand this concept.
1. We will read and annotate this article so we understand what convection is:
2. We will watch the following video about Convection.
3. We will use what we learned in the reading and video to see if we can organize the following statements on a Convection Graphic Organizer:
INSTRUCTIONS: Match the four statements below to the parts of the picture that are labeled A, B, C, and D. Then write them in the corresponding boxes below the picture.
– The force of gravity is causing denser material to fall.
– Density of mantle material is less than material above it, so the materials begin to rise.
– Core heat causes temperature to rise, therefore decreasing the density of material.
– Rising material hits rigid lithosphere and cannot go up any further.
4. Finally we will fill in the Cause, Effect, and Result boxes at the bottom of the Convection Graphic Organizer.
If you missed this day in class you can check your answers here:
Check your understanding and create a Model
Use the Convection Cycle Worksheet and Model to see what you understand about Convection Cycles.
After you have completed the worksheet check your answers here:
For further help understanding Convection in the mantle, check out these resources:
Website Convection In the Mantle: https://maggiesscienceconnection.weebly.com/mantle-convection.html
Khan Academy Lesson: https://www.khanacademy.org/science/cosmology-and-astronomy/earth-history-topic/plate-techtonics/v/plates-moving-due-to-convection-in-mantle
Mantle Convection explained by Peter Bunge:https://youtu.be/w-jgjkTHICk