Tectonic plates
I can describe evidence of how we know tectonic plates move across the surface of Earth.
Tectonic plates
I can describe evidence of how we know tectonic plates move across the surface of Earth.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Occurrences of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions suggest Earth’s layers are not static but interact with each other.
- Evidence, such as rock formations and fossils, supports the idea that the continents were once all joined up.
- Earth’s crust is broken into pieces known as tectonic plates, which move very, very slowly.
- Plate tectonics is a scientific theory that explains how tectonic plates move and interact with each other.
- Plate tectonics help scientists better understand and predict changes to Earth’s surface.
Keywords
Continental drift - A theory that proposed Earth's continents were once one landmass and gradually drifted apart over time.
Continental crust - Parts of Earth's crust that are found below landmasses is referred to as continental crust.
Oceanic crust - Parts of Earth's crust that are found below oceans is referred to as oceanic crust.
Tectonic plate - A tectonic plate consists of Earth's crust and the uppermost mantle that lies beneath it.
Plate tectonics - A theory that explains why continental landmasses move due to tectonic plates.
Common misconception
Some pupils (and teachers and even textbooks) suggest that plate movement is due solely to convection currents.
Stress that the understanding of what drives of tectonic plate moment is still developing; using demonstrations to reinforce the current understanding of slab pull and ridge push are helpful. Avoid any demos that reinforce ideas the mantle is liquid.
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Tectonic plates, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Tectonic plates, 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.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Earth's resources unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
Occurs at boundaries of tectonic plates, involves eruption of magma.
Sudden shaking of the ground caused by movements of tectonic plates.