Plates On a Globe

Purpose: To build a model of the Earth showing plate boundaries

Materials

• tennis ball
• scissors
• glue
• map projection

Procedure

1. Using scissors cut the map projection into four sections as indicated.
2. On the back of each section, write the corresponding section number.
3. Glue the sections in correct order starting with number 1 onto the tennis ball.
4. Cut out the base and glue its ends together to form a base for the tennis ball globe.

Conclusion

1. In looking at the globe, approximately how many plates are there?
2. What relationship is there between the names of the plates and where they are located?
3. Choose one plate and conduct research using Internet, books, and other resources to learn more about the plate. Create a written report, brochure, poster, or other item to present to the class about the plate you choose.

Extensions

1. Describe what occurred to the paper circles when placed in the water? What do you think caused this to happen?
2. What happened to the red food coloring when it was added to the warm end of the water?
3. What happened to the blue food coloring when it was added to the water near the ice?
4. Based on your observations of the activity, how would you describe the theory of convection currents and its affects on plate movement