Processes at constructive/divergent plate margins
I can explain the processes at constructive/divergent plate margins and the causes of earthquakes and volcanoes.
Processes at constructive/divergent plate margins
I can explain the processes at constructive/divergent plate margins and the causes of earthquakes and volcanoes.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Constructive/divergent plate margins involve two plates moving away from each other.
- Distinctive processes occur at constructive/divergent plate margins.
- Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur at constructive/divergent plate margins and have distinctive characteristics.
Keywords
Rift valley - a long, narrow depression formed when a tectonic plate stretches and fractures at a constructive margin, causing the land to sink between parallel fault lines
Shield volcano - a broad, gently sloping volcano formed by basaltic lava that is runny and flows easily. Eruptions tend to be effusive rather than explosive - lava flows out
Magnitude - a measure of the energy released by an earthquake; a higher magnitude means a stronger earthquake
Common misconception
Volcanoes only occur on land.
In fact, volcanoes occur underwater as well as on land, especially at constructive plate margins and hot spots.
To help you plan your year 10 geography lesson on: Processes at constructive/divergent plate margins, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 geography lesson on: Processes at constructive/divergent plate margins, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 4 geography lessons from the Natural and tectonic hazards unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
5 Questions
a steep-sided valley formed by plates pulling apart
has gentle slopes and erupts runny, basaltic lava
measures the energy released by an earthquake