GEOL/WEB

GEOLOGY UNIT


The science of geology provides an excellent linkage between paleontology and the fascinating areas of seismology and volcanology. One could conclude his or her discussion of paleontology by posing the question of why have similar fossil remains of dinosaurs been found on more than one continent. The explanation must take into account that, as a means of animal classification, dinosaurs did not swim. So there you are, now begin geology!

As a frame of reference, meeting the following objectives can be used to guide students through this computer assisted activity:

  1. explain how the Plate Tectonic Theory accounts for current continent location
  2. recognize that continents are simply the upper portions of plates that lie above sea level
  3. discuss the relationship between the temperature differences of the Earth's layers and the Plate Tectonic Theory
  4. handle conversions of kilometers and miles
  5. in general terms, describe the four types of plate movement
  6. diagram each stage of mountain formation
  7. distinguish between a mountain and a hill
  8. explain why oceanic fossils can be found on mountains above sea level
  9. use temperature lapse rate as a means for estimating the temperature at the summit or peak of a mountain
  10. diagram each stage of volcano formation
  11. make a full color drawing of a volcano illustrating all relavant geological features
  12. discuss the work of archaeologist
  13. list two important facts about the rate and location of worldwide volcanic eruptions
  14. discuss different beliefs held by various ethnic groups regarding volcanic activity
  15. explain how the NASA designed Dante device has advanced volcanic study
  16. write an article review of "Robot Explores Steaming Volcano" Current Science 11-4-94
  17. provide a historical perspective on a volcanic eruption--assigned for research
  18. discuss geological information about Mount Kilauea
  19. discuss geological information about Mount St. Helens

STUDENTS BEGIN HERE

Have you ever been to an amusement park? Did you like the rides? I bet you liked the fast ones. Well, there is nothing wrong with that. Believe it or not, you are on a ride right now! You're cruising along at about 5 cm per year! Having any fun? It's true, the continent that we live on has been been cruising along at this rate for the last 250 million years. Actually, our continent lies on an even more massive land mass called The North American Plate. So I ask you, what could be causing these massive plates to move?

POSSIBILITIES

Continental Claustrophobia
http://www.cultures.com/greek_resources/greek_encyclopedia/greek_entry.html/atlas_e.htmlAtlas Shifting the Earth on His Shoulders
The Plate Tectonic Theory

Pretty simple stuff, right? Now, let's really put your "GeoBrain" to work! These tectonic plates primarily move in four different ways. Which do you want to learn about first?

Plate Collision: one forced under

(sample diagram)

Plate Collision: one forced upward

Plates Grinding Against Plates

Plates Moving Apart

You know, this plate movement stuff is really fascinating. I bet you particularly liked that information on volcano formation. How could you not? Hey, do you know anything about the last major eruption on the continental United States? No?! Well, check this out:

BECOMING A MOUNT ST. HELENS EXPERT

Before Eruption

Animated View of Eruption

After Eruption

Narrative of Mount St. Helens' Eruption

ONE MORE THING!

If you think Mount St. Helens is impressive, take a look at Mount Kilauea in Hawaii. It is the world's most active volcano, and it is in the United States. Our country rules! Don't forget to take a look at how volcanologists use Dante II.

Your assignment now is to choose a volcanic eruption from the approved list. After completing extensive research, you are to prepare a narrative of its most spectacular eruption. Remember, you can use the Narrative of Mount St. Helens' Eruption as a guide for this report.

  1. Krakatau (Indonesia)
  2. Nevado Del Ruiz (Columbia)
  3. Mount Unzen (Japan)
  4. Mount Tambora (Sumbawa)
  5. Mount Pelee (Martinique)
  6. Mount Vesuvius (Italy)
  7. Lake Nyos (Cameroon)
  8. Mount Kelud (Java)
  9. Mount Lamington (New Guinea)
  10. Mount Taal (Philippines)

Krakatau

Mount Vesuvius

Mount Unzen

Mount Taal

Mount Tambora

Mount Pelee

Lake Nyos

Mount Lamington

Mount Kelut

Nevada Del Ruiz

If you are still hungry for more about volcanoes in general, try the web site Bill Nye's:Volcanoes. Once you are at the web site:

  • click U-Nye-Verse
  • click Episodes
  • Highlight Pick a P.S. Episode under Planetary Science
  • Scroll down to Volcanoes and highlight
  • click Go
  • Now have some fun!

    By the way, I chose red and white because these are the colors of my favorite NCAA football team. Can you guess which team? (hint: they have been national champions three out of the last four years!)
    Click here.