Learning Goals for the Plate Tectonics Test

(Tuesday, February 3rd)

To be prepared for the test, the learner should:
Understand that the Earth can be divided into layers, be able to name these layers, and
identify characteristics associated with each layer. Characteristics may include density,
temperature, pressure, what it is made of, etc. (See Inside the Earth Article/Notes and
Graph questions)
Understand that there are two types of crust; be able to identify each type, its location,
and any specific properties. (See Inside the Earth Article/Notes)
Understand that the asthenosphere has a special property, what this property is, and
how it relates to plate tectonics. (See Plasticity Lab and questions)
Understand the evidence that Alfred Wegener used to formulate his theory of continental
drift and understand what the theory of continental drift states. (See Alfred Wegener
article and questions)
Understand the three types of plate boundaries and the direction in which the plates
move at each type of boundary. Also, understand what features or events are associated
with each boundary type. (See Tectonic Plates Notes/Diagram packet)
Understand what type of boundary is considered a Construction Zone and why. Also
understand what type of boundary is considered a Destruction Zone and why.
Understand what is happening to the crust at these boundaries. (See Tectonic Plates
Notes/Diagram packet).
Understand the differences between convergent boundaries involving
continental/continental crust antal/oceanic crust and the differences in features
associated with these boundaries. (See Tectonic Plates Notes/Diagram packet).
Understand what type of boundary seafloor spreading occurs at, what is happening to
crust at this location, and be able to determine the relative age of rocks produced by
seafloor spreading. (See Sea Floor Spreading notes and lab activity)
Understand where the energy that drives plate tectonics comes from, how this energy is
transferred in the mantle and understand that plate tectonics is an ongoing result of this
transfer of energy. (See Inside the Earth Article/Notes and Graph questions)
Be prepared to answer questions like those found on all assignments and labs from this
unit.