Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Science
Teachers Guide
Unit 1
Department of Education
Republic of the Philippines
Science Grade 10
Teachers Guide
First Edition 2015
Republic Act 8293, section 176 states that: No copyright shall subsist in any work of
the Government of the Philippines. However, prior approval of the government agency or office
wherein the work is created shall be necessary for exploitation of such work for profit. Such
agency or office may, among other things, impose as a condition the payment of royalties.
Borrowed materials (i.e., songs, stories, poems, pictures, photos, brand names,
trademarks, etc.) included in this book are owned by their respective copyright holders.
DepEd is represented by the Filipinas Copyright Licensing Society (FILCOLS), Inc. in seeking
permission to use these materials from their respective copyright owners. All means have been
exhausted in seeking permission to use these materials. The publisher and authors do not
represent nor claim ownership over them.
Only institutions and companies which have entered an agreement with FILCOLS and
only within the agreed framework may copy from this Teachers Guide. Those who have not
entered in an agreement with FILCOLS must, if they wish to copy, contact the publishers and
authors directly.
Authors and publishers may email or contact FILCOLS at filcols@gmail.com or (02)
439-2204, respectively.
Office Address:
Telefax:
E-mail Address:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
December 2013
(Grade 10)
SCIENCE
K to 12 Curriculum Guide
Pasig City
Department of Education
way to a deeper understanding of core concepts. The integration across science topics and other disciplines will lead to a meaningful understanding of concepts and its
Life Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Earth Sciences are presented with increasing levels of complexity from one grade level to another in spiral progression, thus paving the
As a whole, the K to 12 science curriculum is learner-centered and inquiry-based, emphasizing the use of evidence in constructing explanations. Concepts and skills in
and appreciate science as relevant and useful. Rather than relying solely on textbooks, varied hands-on, minds-on, and hearts-on activities will be used to develop learners
these processes are best learned in context. Organizing the curriculum around situations and problems that challenge and arouse learners curiosity motivates them to learn
Science content and science processes are intertwined in the K to 12 Curriculum. Without the content, learners will have difficulty utilizing science process skills since
namely, constructivism, social cognition learning model, learning style theory, and brain-based learning.
technology-society approach, contextual learning, problem/issue-based learning, and inquiry-based approach. The approaches are based on sound educational pedagogy
demonstrating scientific attitudes and values. The acquisition of these domains is facilitated using the following approaches: multi/interdisciplinary approach, science-
understanding and applying scientific knowledge in local setting as well as global context whenever possible, performing scientific processes and skills, and developing and
nature, innovative and creative citizens, informed decision makers, and effective communicators. This curriculum is designed around the three domains of learning science:
the development of scientifically, technologically, and environmentally literate and productive members of society who are critical problem solvers, responsible stewards of
The K to 12 science curriculum will provide learners with a repertoire of competencies important in the world of work and in a knowledge-based society. It envisions
personal and ethical aspects of life. The science curriculum promotes a strong link between science and technology, including indigenous technology, thus preserving our
The science curriculum recognizes the place of science and technology in everyday human affairs. It integrates science and technology in the social, economic,
and decisions regarding applications of scientific knowledge that may have social, health, or environmental impacts.
Science education aims to develop scientific literacy among learners that will prepare them to be informed and participative citizens who are able to make judgments
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Brain-based
learning
Developing and
Demonstrating Scientific
Attitudes and Values
46
K3
710
KEY STAGE STANDARDS: (STANDARDS FOR SCIENCE LEARNING AREAS FOR K-3, 4-6, 7-10 AND 11-2)
11-12
The learners demonstrate understanding of basic science concepts and application of science-inquiry skills. They exhibit scientific attitudes and values to solve
problems critically, innovate beneficial products, protect the environment and conserve resources, enhance the integrity and wellness of people, make informed
decisions, and engage in discussions of relevant issues that involve science, technology, and environment.
Grade 4
Grade 3
Grade 2
At the end of Grade 4, learners can investigate changes in some observable properties of materials when mixed with other materials or when
force is applied on them. They can identify materials that do not decay and use this knowledge to help minimize waste at home, school, and in
the community.
Learners can describe the functions of the different internal parts of the body in order to practice ways to maintain good health. They can classify
plants and animals according to where they live and observe interactions among living things and their environment. They can infer that plants
and animals have traits that help them survive in their environment.
Learners can investigate the effects of push or pull on the size, shape, and movement of an object.
Learners can investigate which type of soil is best for certain plants and infer the importance of water in daily activities. They learned about what
makes up weather and apply their knowledge of weather conditions in making decisions for the day. They can infer the importance of the Sun to
life on Earth.
At the end of Grade 3, learners can describe the functions of the different parts of the body and things that make up their surroundings --- rocks
and soil, plants and animals, the Sun, Moon and stars. They can also classify these things as solid, liquid or gas. They can describe how objects
move and what makes them move. They can also identify sources and describe uses of light, heat, sound, and electricity.
Learners can describe changes in the conditions of their surroundings. These would lead learners to become more curious about their
surroundings, appreciate nature, and practice health and safety measures.
At the end of Grade 2, learners will use their senses to explore and describe the functions of their senses, compare two or more objects and
using two or more properties , sort things in different ways and give a reason for doing so, describe the kind of weather or certain events in the
home or school and express how these are affecting them, do simple measurements of length, tell why some things around them are important ,
decide if what they do is safe or dangerous; give suggestions on how to prevent accidents at home, practice electricity, water, and paper
conservation, help take care of pets or of plants , and tell short stories about what they do, what they have seen, or what they feel.
Grade 1
The learners will demonstrate an emerging understanding of the parts of their body and their general functions; plants, animals and varied
materials in their environment and their observable characteristics; general weather conditions and how these influence what they wear; and
other things in their environment. Understanding of their bodies and what is around them is acquired through exploration, questioning, and
careful observation as they infer patterns, similarities, and differences that will allow them to make sound conclusions.
Grade-Level Standards
At the end of Grade 1, learners will use their senses to locate and describe the external parts of their body; to identify, external parts of animals
and plants; to tell the shape, color, texture, taste, and size of things around them; to describe similarities and differences given two objects; to
differentiate sounds produced by animals, vehicles cars, and musical instruments; to illustrate how things move; to, describe the weather and
what to do in different situations; to use appropriate terms or vocabulary to describe these features; to collect, sort, count, draw, take things
apart, or make something out of the things; to practice healthy habits (e.g., washing hands properly, choosing nutritious food) and safety
measures (e.g., helping to clean or pack away toys, asking questions and giving simple answers/ descriptions to probing questions).
Kindergarten
GRADE/LEVEL
Grade-Level Standards
At the end of Grade 5, learners can decide whether materials are safe and useful by investigating about some of their properties. They can infer
that new materials may form when there are changes in properties due to certain conditions.
Learners have developed healthful and hygienic practices related to the reproductive system after describing changes that accompany puberty.
They can compare different modes of reproduction among plant and animal groups and conduct an investigation on pollination. They have
become aware of the importance of estuaries and intertidal zones and help in their preservation.
Learners can describe the movement of objects in terms of distance and time travelled. Learners recognize that different materials react
differently with heat, light, and sound. They can relate these abilities of materials to their specific uses.
Learners can describe the changes that earth materials undergo. They can make emergency plans with their families in preparation for typhoons.
They can observe patterns in the natural events by observing the appearance of the Moon.
At the end of Grade 6, learners recognize that when mixed together, materials may not form new ones thus these materials may be recovered
using different separation techniques. They can prepare useful mixtures such as food, drinks and herbal medicines.
Learners understand how the different organ systems of the human body work together. They can classify plants based on reproductive
structures, and animals based on the presence or lack of backbone. They can design and conduct an investigation on plant propagation. They
can describe larger ecosystems such as rainforests, coral reefs, and mangrove swamps.
Learners can infer that friction and gravity affect how people and objects move. They have found out that heat, light, sound, electricity, and
motion studied earlier are forms of energy and these undergo transformation.
Learners can describe what happens during earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and demonstrate what to do when they occur. They can infer
that the weather follows a pattern in the course of a year. They have learned about the solar system, with emphasis on the motions of the Earth
as prerequisite to the study of seasons in another grade level.
GRADE/LEVEL
Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade-Level Standards
At the end of Grade 7, learners can distinguish mixtures from substances through semi-guided investigations. They realize the importance of air
testing when conducting investigations. After studying how organ systems work together in plants and animals in the lower grade levels, learners
can use a microscope when observing very small organisms and structures. They recognize that living things are organized into different levels:
Cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, and organisms. These organisms comprise populations and communities, which interact with non-living
things in ecosystems.
Learners can describe the motion of objects in terms of distance and speed, and represent this in tables, graphs, charts, and equations. They can
describe how various forms of energy travel through different mediums.
Learners describe what makes up the Philippines as a whole and the resources found in the archipelago. They can explain the occurrence of
breezes, monsoons, and ITCZ, and how these weather systems affect people. They can explain why seasons change and demonstrate how
eclipses occur.
At the end of Grade 8, learners can describe the factors that affect the motion of an object based on the Laws of Motion. They can differentiate
the concept of work as used in science and in laymans language. They know the factors that affect the transfer of energy, such as temperature
difference, and the type (solid, liquid, or gas) of the medium.
Learners can explain how active faults generate earthquakes and how tropical cyclones originate from warm ocean waters. They recognize other
members of the solar system.
Learners can explain the behaviour of matter in terms of the particles it is made of. They recognize that ingredients in food and medical products
are made up of these particles and are absorbed by the body in the form of ions.
Learners recognize reproduction as a process of cell division resulting in growth of organisms. They have delved deeper into the process of
digestion as studied in the lower grades, giving emphasis on proper nutrition for overall wellness. They can participate in activities that protect
and conserve economically important species used for food.
At the end of Grade 9, learners have gained a a deeper understanding of the digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems to promote overall
health. They have become familiar with some technologies that introduce desired traits in economically important plants and animals. Learners
can explain how new materials are formed when atoms are rearranged. They recognize that a wide variety of useful compounds may arise from
such rearrangements.
Learners can identify volcanoes and distinguish between active and inactive ones. They can explain how energy from volcanoes may be tapped
for human use. They are familiar with climatic phenomena that occur on a global scale. They can explain why certain constellations can be seen
only at certain times of the year.
Learners can predict the outcomes of interactions among objects in real life applying the laws of conservation of energy and momentum.
GRADE/LEVEL
Grade 7
Grade 8
Grade 9
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Force, Motion,&
Energy
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Force, Motion,&
Energy
2nd Quarter
3rd Quarter
4th Quarter
Earth & Space
Matter
Matter
1st Quarter
G4
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Matter
G5
Force, Motion,&
Energy
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Matter
G6
Force, Motion,&
Energy
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Matter
G7
Force, Motion,&
Energy
Matter
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Matter
Matter
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Force, Motion,&
Energy
Living Things
and Their
Environment
Force, Motion,&
Energy
G10
G9
G8
Grade 10
G3
At the end of Grade 10, learners realize that volcanoes and earthquakes occur in the same places in the world and that these are related to plate
boundaries. They can demonstrate ways to ensure safety and reduce damage during earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Learners
can explain the factors affecting the balance and stability of an object to help them practice appropriate positions and movements to achieve
efficiency and safety such as in sports and dancing. They can analyze situations in which energy is harnessed for human use whereby heat is
released, affecting the physical and biological components of the environment. Learners will have completed the study of the entire organism
with their deeper study of the excretory and reproductive systems. They can explain in greater detail how genetic information is passed from
parents to offspring, and how diversity of species increases the probability of adaptation and survival in changing environments. Learners can
explain the importance of controlling the conditions under which a chemical reaction occurs. They recognize that cells and tissues of the human
body are made up of water, a few kinds of ions, and biomolecules. These biomolecules may also be found in the food they eat.
Grade-Level Standards
GRADE/LEVEL
Grade 3
MATTER
Grade 5
PROPERTIES OF MATTER
Aside from being grouped into
After learning how to read and interpret
solids, liquids, or gases, materials product labels, learners can critically decide
may also be grouped according to whether these materials are harmful or not.
their ability to absorb water,
They can also describe ways in which they
ability to float or sink, and
can use their knowledge of solids and
whether they decay or not
liquids in making useful materials and
products.
Grade 4
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 9
Grade 8
Grade 10
Grade 3
Grade 5
Grade 6
ECOSYSTEMS
Learners learn that there are beneficial and
Learners are introduced to the
harmful interactions that occur among living
interactions among components of
things and their environment as they obtain
larger habitats such as estuaries and
their basic needs.
intertidal zones, as well as the
conditions that enable certain
organisms to live.
Grade 4
In Grade 4, the learners are introduced to
the major organs of the human body.
Grade 7
Grade 9
ECOSYSTEMS
Learners learn how energy is transformed
Learners learn how plants capture
and how materials are cycled in
energy from the Sun and store energy in
ecosystems.
sugar molecules (photosynthesis). This
Grade 8
Grade 10
Grade 3
Grade 7
Grade 5
This time, learners begin to accurately
measure the amount of change in the
movement of an object in terms of its
distance travelled and time of travel
using appropriate tools.
ENERGY
Learners learn that light, heat, and sound
travel from the source. They perform
simple activities that demonstrate how
they travel using various objects.
Note: Electricity is not included in Grade
4 because the concept of flow of
charges is difficult to understand at this
grade level.
Grade 9
stored energy is used by cells during
cellular respiration. These two processes
are related to each other.
Grade 4
Grade 8
Grade 6
Grade 10
Grade 7
Grade 9
Grade 8
Grade 10
Grade 3
GEOLOGY
Grade 5
METEOROLOGY
Learners will learn that the weather does
not stay the same the whole year round.
Weather disturbances such as typhoons
may occur. Learners will describe the
effects of typhoons on the community and
the changes in the weather before, during,
and after a typhoon.
ASTRONOMY
After describing the natural objects
After learning about the Sun, learners will
that are seen in the sky, learners will now familiarize themselves with the Moon
now focus on the main source of
and the stars. They will describe the
heat and light on Earth: the Sun, its
changes in the appearance of the Moon and
role in plant growth and
discover that the changes are cyclical, and
development, and its effect on the
that the cycle is related to the length of a
activities of humans and other
month. Learners will identify star patterns
animals.
that can be seen during certain times of the
year.
Grade 4
Grade 6
Grade 7
ASTRONOMY
METEOROLOGY
Being located beside the Pacific Ocean, the
Philippines is prone to typhoons. In Grade
5, the effects of typhoons were tackled.
Here, learners will explain how typhoons
develop, how typhoons are affected by
landforms and bodies of water, and why
typhoons follow certain paths as they move
within the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Grade 9
Being located along the Ring of Fire, the
Philippines is home to many volcanoes. Using
models, learners will explain what happens
when volcanoes erupt. They will describe the
different types of volcanoes and differentiate
active volcanoes from inactive ones. They
will also explain how energy from volcanoes
may be tapped for human use.
GEOLOGY
As a result of being located along the Ring
of Fire, the Philippines is prone to
earthquakes. Using models, learners will
explain how quakes are generated by
faults. They will try to identify faults in the
community and differentiate active faults
from inactive ones.
Grade 8
Grade 10
CONTENT STANDARDS
1. demonstrate ways to
ensure disaster
preparedness during
earthquakes, tsunamis,
and volcanic eruptions
1. Electromagnetic Spectrum
The learners s
hall be able to:
PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
1. Plate Tectonics
1.1 Distribution
1.1.1 volcanoes
1.1.2 earthquake epicenters
1.1.3 mountain ranges
1.2 Plate boundaries
1.3 Processes and landforms along
plate boundaries
1.4 Internal structure of the Earth
1.5 Mechanism (possible causes of
movement)
1.6 Evidence of plate movement
CONTENT
GRADE 10
LEARNING COMPETENCY
S10FE-IIa-b-47
S9ES Ia-j-36.6
S9ES Ia-j36.4
S9ES Ia-j36.5
S9ES Ia-j36.3
S9ES Ia-j36.2
S9ES Ia-j36.1
CODE
2. Light
CONTENT
CONTENT STANDARDS
PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
S10FE-IIj-54
S10FE-IIi-53
S10FE-IIh-52
S10FE-IIg-51
S10FE-IIg-50
S10FE-IIe-f-49
S10FE-IIc-d-48
CODE
LEARNING COMPETENCY
CONTENT STANDARDS
1. organisms as having
feedback mechanisms,
which are coordinated
by the nervous and
endocrine systems
CONTENT
PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
LEARNING COMPETENCY
S10LT-IIIe-38
S10LT-IIId-37
S10LT-IIIc-36
S10LT-IIIc-35
S10LT-IIIb-34
S10LT-IIIa-33
CODE
2. an ecosystem as being
capable of supporting a
limited number of
organisms
1. the influence of
biodiversity on the
stability of ecosystems
CONTENT STANDARDS
1. Gas Laws
how gases behave based
on the motion and relative
distances between gas
particles
Grade 10 Matter
FOURTH QUARTER/FOURTH GRADING PERIOD
4. Ecosystems
4.1 Flow of Energy and Matter in
Ecosystems
4.2 Biodiversity and Stability
4.3 Population Growth and
Carrying Capacity
CONTENT
PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
S10MT-IVa-b21
S10LT-IIIj-43
S10LT-IIIi-42
S10LT-IIIh-41
S10LT-IIIg-40
S10LT-IIIf-39
CODE
LEARNING COMPETENCY
3. Chemical reactions
2. Biomolecules
CONTENT
the structure of
biomolecules, which are
made up mostly of a limited
number of elements, such
as carbon, hydrogen,
oxygen, and nitrogen
CONTENT STANDARDS
PERFORMANCE
STANDARDS
S10MT-IVe-g23
S10MT-IVh-j-24
S10MT-IVc-d-22
CODE
LEARNING COMPETENCY
Quarter
Week
Competency
Roman Numeral
*Zero if no specific quarter
Lowercase Letter/s
*Put a hyphen (-) in between
letters to indicate more than a
specific week
Arabic Number
Week four
Second Quarter
Domain/Content/
Component/ Topic
Uppercase Letter/s
Science
Grade 8
SAMPLE
Grade Level
First Entry
LEGEND
19
II
ES
S8
Sample: S8ES-IId-19
DOMAIN/ COMPONENT
Matter
MT
ES
FE
LT
CODE
UNIT 1
Earth and Space
Unit 1
MODULE
Plate Tectonics
Content Standard
Performance Standard
The learner demonstrates
The learners shall be able to
understanding of the relationship demonstrate ways to ensure disaster
among the locations of volcanoes, preparedness during earthquakes,
earthquake epicenter, and mountain tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.
ranges
Overview:
In the previous grade level, the students became familiar with the different
types of volcanoes. They were also able to determine the factors that give the
distinct conical shapes of volcanoes. Lastly, they understood how energy can
be harnessed from volcanic activities.
In this particular module, the activities included will allow the students to
find out what causes volcanism. The learners will also determine the relationship
among the locations of volcanoes, earthquake epicenters, and mountain ranges.
Furthermore, they will have a chance to figure out what causes the formation of
different geologic features such as mountain ranges, volcanic arcs, trenches,
mid-ocean ridges, and rift valleys.
Learning Competencies/Objectives
Pre-Assessment
A. Choose the letter of the best answer.
1. You were provided with data showing the arrival time of the P and S waves
recorded from three seismic stations. Which of these can you possibly
determine?
a. the damage at the focus
c. the intensity of the earthquake
b. the distance to the earthquake
d. the location of the epicenter
Answer: d
2. From the seismogram, the distance to the epicenter can be determined by
measuring
a. the arrival time of surface wave
b. the difference in the arrival times of the P and S waves
c. the ratio of the amplitude of the largest P and S waves
d. the speed of the surface wave
Answer: b
3. When two tectonic plates collide, the oceanic crust usually subducts
beneath the continental crust because it is
a. denser than continental crust
c. thicker than continental crust
b. less dense than continental crust
d. thinner than continental crust
Answer: a
4. If you will visit a place in the Pacific known to be along converging plates,
which of these should you not expect to see?
a. active volcanoes
c. rift valleys
b. mountain ranges
d. volcanic islands
Answer: c
5. You are an oceanographer and want to map the ocean floor on the east
coast of the Philippines. As you do your study, you noticed that there is a
portion of the ocean floor which is relatively much deeper than the rest.
What most likely is that deeper part?
a. linear sea
c. rift valley
b. oceanic ridge d. trench
Answer: d
Answer: a
7. Crustal Plate A is moving away from Crustal Plate B. What is the expected
average rate of change in position between A and B?
a. a few centimeters per year
c. a few millimeters per century
b. a few meters per month
d. a few millimeters per day
Answer: a
8. Which plate boundary is formed between the Philippine Plate and the
Eurasian Plate?
a. convergent c. reverse fault
b. divergent d. transform fault
Answer: a
Answer: a
Answer: b
Mantle
Oceanic crust
The lithosphere is said to be in constant but slow motion. These motions
can range widely. The Arctic Ridge has the slowest rate (less than 2.5 cm/yr),
and the East Pacific Rise near Easter Island, in the South Pacific about 3,400
km west of Chile, has the fastest rate (more than 15 cm/yr). This movement of
the lithosphere is called tectonics.
Figure 2 in the LM is a map showing the lithosphere of the Earth divided
into segments called plates. But what are the basis of scientists in dividing the
lithosphere in such manner?
The next two activities will answer the question posted in previous page.
Activity 1
Find the Center
Teaching Tips
1. Let the students recall the different types of seismic waves particularly
the body waves (Primary and Secondary waves). Students must
recall also that Primary waves travel faster than Secondary waves.
2. Explain to them, that because of this difference in velocity between
P and S waves, the distance of earthquake epicenter from the
recording station can be determined. If they have data from three
recording stations, the exact position of an earthquake epicenter can
be located using the triangulation method.
3. Introduce Activity 1 Find the Center, which will allow the students to
use the triangulation method in locating the epicenter of a hypothetical
earthquake.
7
Answers to questions
Td
= 100 km
Using the formula d = -----------8 seconds
Time difference of
P-wave and S-wave
(seconds)
44.8
32
38.4
Distance of epicenter
from the station (km)
560
400
480
Since the scale of the Philippine map on page 9 of the LM is 1.5 cm: 200
km, set the drawing compass to the following computed distances on the map.
How to compute the
distance on the map
Computed distance on
the map (cm)
Batangas
4.2
Puerto Princesa
Davao
3.6
Recording station
Q3. What is the distance of the epicenter from the seismic station?
Answer: 9000 km
Q4. What do you think is the importance of determining the epicenter of an
earthquake?
Possible answer:
* Locating earthquake epicenters will pinpoint which fault lines are active.
Usually, the less active fault line stores great amount of potential energy
that could cause major earthquake once released. Therefore, places near
fault lines that remain inactive for a long period of time are due to experience
a major earthquake.
Key concepts:
In order to locate the epicenter of an earthquake, you need to determine
the time interval between the arrival of the P and S waves (the S-P
interval) on the seismograms from at least three different stations. You
have to measure the interval to the closest second and then use a graph
(Distance-time graph on page 10 of the LM) to convert the S-P interval
to the epicentral distance.
Once you have the epicentral distances, you can draw circles to represent
each distance on a map. The radius of each circle corresponds to the
epicentral distance for each seismic recording station. Once you have
drawn all three circles and located the point where all three intersect,
you will have successfully located (triangulated) the epicenter of the
earthquake.
For instructions on how to perform triangulation method you may visit this
website: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBS7BKqHRhs
9
Activity 2
Teaching Tips
1. Let the students look at Figure 2: Map of Plate Boundaries on page
7 and you may ask them the following questions;
a. What is the difference between Figure 1 and a regular World
map?
b. What do you think is the basis of dividing the world in such
manner?
2. Introduce to the learners Activity 2 Lets Mark the Boundaries and
tell them that the next activity will help them confirm their answers to
the last question.
Answers to questions:
Q5. How are earthquakes distributed on the map?
Answer: The worlds earthquakes are not randomly distributed over the Earths
surface. They tend to be concentrated in narrow zones.
Q6. Where are they located?
Answer: Some are located near the edges of the continents, some are in midcontinents, while others are in oceans .
But not ALL edges of continents,mid-continents,or oceans can be
places where earthquake might occur.
Q7. Where are places with no earthquakes?
Answer: Answers may vary. Some of the possible answers are: large part of
the Pacific ocean, northernmost Asia, majority of Europe, eastern
portion of North and South America and western Africa.
Q8. Why do you think it is important for us to identify areas which are prone to
earthquakes?
Answer: It is important to identify areas which are prone to earthquakes so
that necessary precautions could be done if ever youre living in one
of those places.
10
11
To view an interactive map that will show the relationship between plate
boundaries and different geologic processes, you may visit; http://ees.as.uky.
edu/sites/default/files/elearning/module04swf.swf
Activity 3
Head-On Collision
Teaching tips:
1. Let the students recall that there are two types of crust, continental
and oceanic. Between the two, the oceanic crust is denser.
2. Introduce to the students that plates could either be a continental
crust-leading plate or an oceanic crust-leading plate.
3. Introduce the next activity, Part A Converging Continental plate and
Oceanic plate. This activity will allow the students to determine the
effects of colliding oceanic and continental plates.
Answers to Questions:
Part A: Converging Continental Plate and Oceanic Plate
Q15. What type of plate is Plate A? What about Plate B? Why did you say so?
Answer: Plate A is an oceanic plate because it is relatively thinner compared
to plate B. While Plate B is a continental plate because it is thicker and
floats higher than the other plate.
Q16. Describe what happens to Plate A as it collides with Plate B? Why?
Answer: Plate A bends downward because Plate A is denser than Plate B.
Tell the students that this sinking of plate beneath the other plate is called
subduction. Point out also to the students that, because of the subduction
process, a depression on the ocean floor called trench is also formed.
Q17. What do you think will happen to the leading edge of Plate A as it continues
to move downward? Why?
Answer: The leading edge of Plate A will start to melt because the temperature
beneath the crust (mantle) is higher.
12
You may add the fact that as the plate moves deeper into the mantle, it carries
with it water which also causes the melting of rocks.
Q18. What do you call this molten material?
Answer: This molten material is called magma.
Q19. What is formed on top of Plate B?
Answer: Volcanoes are formed on top of Plate B.
Tell the students that volcanoes are mountains that are built by the accumulation
of their own eruptive products such as lava.
Parallel to the trench, point out in the diagram that volcanoes are formed.
Q20. As the plates continue to grind against each other, what other geologic
event could take place?
Answer: Earthquake could take place as the plates continue to grind against
each other.
Key concepts:
1. During the convergence of an oceanic plate and a continental plate,
the denser oceanic plate slides under the continental plate. This
process is called subduction.
2. Geologic events such as formation of volcanoes and trenches as well
as occurrence of earthquake will take place because of this process.
You can end the lesson at this point.
An animated diagram of subduction process can be seen on this website;
http://earthguide.ucsd.edu/eoc/teachers/t_tectonics/p_subduction.html
13
14
Key concepts:
1. When two oceanic plates converge they also undergo subduction
process. This gives rise to the formation volcanic island arcs, trenches
and generates shallow, intermediate, or deep earthquakes.
2. Strong earthquakes generated at the ocean floor may cause
displacement of large volume of water and launch big waves called
tsunami.
Part C: Two Continental Plates Converging
Teaching tips:
1. You may start the lesson by asking questions such as;
a. What is the highest peak in the Philippines? Mt. Apo about 3144
meters
b. How about the highest mountain in the world? Mt. Everest
c. Do you have any idea how tall Mount Everest is? 8848 meters
d. How do you think most of the tall mountains of the world are
formed?
2. Just gather all the ideas the students will mention regarding the last
question. After all the ideas had been presented, tell them that they
will check their answers after they perform the next activity.
Q24. What happened to the strips of clay as they were pushed from opposite
ends?
Answer: The strips of clay buckled upward.
Q25. If the strips of clay represent the Earths lithosphere, what do you think
is formed in the lithosphere?
Answer: Mountains are formed in the lithosphere.
Q26. What other geologic event could take place with this type of plate
movement aside from your answer in Q25?
Answer: Earthquakes will occur due to the collision of the two plates. (Since
there is no subduction, only shallow earthquakes will happen)
Q27. In terms of the consequences on the Earths lithosphere, how will you
differentiate this type of convergent plate boundary with the other two?
Answer: Since the two plates involved are both continental plates there is
no subduction process (because both plates are low in density). As a
result, mountains are formed instead of volcanoes.
15
Key concept:
1. When two continental plates meet head-on, neither is subducted.
Instead, the crust tends to buckle and be pushed upwardcausing
formation of mountain ranges and other highlands.
Activity 4
Going Separate Ways
Teaching tips:
1. You may start the lesson by saying this:
In a convergent plate boundary, the leading plates undergo destruction
process as the crust is consumed in the mantle. But what do you think is
happening on the other end of each plates? (creation of new crust)
(We cannot expect that the students will be able to answer this question
correctly. This will just serve as the springboard for the next lesson.)
2. To find out the answer to this question, students will study the next
type of plate boundary-the Divergent plate boundary.
3. The next activity Going Separate Ways, will require students to
analyze four pictures. The two topmost pictures are rift valleys while
the bottom two are oceanic ridges.
Answers to Questions:
Q28 What are common in the four pictures?
Answers: All four pictures show a fissure or a crack between two land masses.
Q29. What do you think is happening to the Earths crust in those pictures?
Answer: The land masses are moving away from each other.
Q30. If this event continues for millions of years, what do you think will be the
effect on the crust?
Answer: The distance between the land masses will be far greater than what
is shown in the picture.
Q31. Complete the drawing below to illustrate your answer in question number 3.
16
Answer: The illustration of the students should show a wider crack or fissure
between the two land masses.
Key concepts:
1. Divergent boundaries occur along spreading centers where plates
are moving apart and new crust is created by magma pushing up
from the mantle.
2. Effects that are found at a divergent boundary between oceanic plates
include: a submarine mountain range such as the Mid-Atlantic Ridge;
volcanic activity in the form of fissure eruptions; shallow earthquake
activity; creation of new seafloor; and a widening ocean basin.
3. If a divergent boundary is between continental plates, the effects are:
rift valley formation which will soon develop into linear sea; shallow
earthquake activities, and numerous normal faults.
17
Activity 5
Teaching tips:
1. The next activity will be a simulation-type activity where students will
simulate how transform-fault boundary is formed.
2. After the activity has been performed, you may ask the following
questions:
a. If the blocks of wood were plates, what kind of plate boundary is
formed between Blocks 1 and 2? between 3 and 4? (divergent)
b. Describe the relative motion of Blocks 2 and 3; Blocks 1 and 3;
Blocks 2 and 4. (Same answer with guide questions 3 and 4)
3. Inform the students that this is another type of plate boundary called
transform-fault boundary.
4. Tell students that most transform-fault boundaries are found in the
ocean basins. Only few of which are found in the continents. The
best example of transform-fault boundary in a continent is the San
Andreas Fault.
5. Ask the students what they think would the consequence be if plates
move horizontally past each other, (Shallow earthquakes).
Answers to Questions:
Q32. Were you able to pull the blocks of wood easily? Why or why not?
Answer: No, because of the friction between the edges of the block of wood.
Q33. What can you say about the relative motion of Blocks 1 and 2? How
about Blocks 3 and 4?
Answer: Block 2 is moving away from Block 1, while Block 3 is moving away
from Block 4.
Q34. How will you describe the interaction between Blocks 2 and 3 as you pull
each block?
Answer: Blocks 2 and 3 are sliding past each other.
18
Q35. What is the interaction between Blocks 1 and 3? How about between
Blocks 2 and 4?
Answer: Block 3 is sliding past block 1 while Block 2 is sliding past Block 4.
Key concepts:
1. Transform-fault boundaries are where two plates are sliding
horizontally past one another.
2. Most transform faults are found on the ocean floor. They commonly
offset active spreading ridges, producing zig-zag plate margins, and
are generally defined by shallow earthquakes.
Activity 6
Drop It Like Its Hot Spot
Teaching tips:
1. Show the students an aerial picture of the Hawaiian islands.http://
www.aimforawesome.com/media-photos-ebooks-audio-videos/
photos/hawaiian-islands-aerial-satellite-photograph/
2. Tell them that the Hawaiian islands are volcanic islands.
3. Let them realize that Hawaii is situated in the middle of Pacific plate
and not along the plate boundaries. Ask them what gives rise to
Hawaiian islands.
4. Introduce to them the next activity which is about intraplate activities.
5. The activity will simulate how hot spots give rise to volcanic islands.
6. You can also watch a video clip on this website:http://www.youtube.
com/watch?v=AhSaE0omw9o
Answers to questions
Q36. What can you see on the surface of the paper?
Answer: The surface of the paper which is directly in contact with the test tube
became wet.
Q37. Lets say that the paper represents the Earths crust; what do you think is
represented by the water in the test tube?
Answer: Magma from the mantle is represented by the water in the test tube.
19
Q38. What geologic feature do you think will be formed at the surface of the
crust?
Answer: Volcanoes will be formed.
Q39. Which of the features at the surface of the crust will be the oldest? the
youngest? Label these on your paper.
Answer: The oldest volcano will be the first one that developed while the
youngest volcano is the last one that was formed.
Q40. Which of the features will be the most active? The least active? Label
these on your paper.
Answer: The most active volcano is the youngest one (the one that is
currently on top of the magma source). While the least active
volcano, is the oldest (because it is already cut-off from the source of
magma).
Key concepts:
1. A hot spot is an area in the mantle from which hot materials rise as
a thermal plume.
2. High heat and lower pressure at the base of the lithosphere (tectonic
plate) facilitates melting of the rock. This melt, called magma, rises
through cracks and erupts to form volcanoes.
3. As the tectonic plate moves over the stationary hot spot, the volcanoes
are rafted away and new ones form in their place. This results in
chains of volcanoes, such as the Hawaiian Islands.
Performance Task
Teaching tips:
1. The students will be asked to prepare an emergency kit for the whole
family that they can use during or after a disaster.
2. This activity will require weeks of preparation on the part of the
students. Assign this activity weeks before the actual lesson.
3. Some items needed in the kit may be costly, but as much as possible
let us encourage the students to do their best to complete their kits.
20
4. Let students present their emergency kits in the class and explain
why they think those items must be included in the kit.
5. Encourage debate and discussion.
6. Emphasize that an emergency kit must be prepared ahead of time,
not right before or during an emergency
7. The scoring rubric below can be use in evaluating the emergency kit
of the students.
1 pt.
2 pts.
Survival Kit
Items
None of the
items are
necessary
for survival
during or
after a
disaster. .
Labels and
Uses
None of
the items
are labeled
properly and
there is no
reason for
including it in
the survival
kit.
A few of
the items
are labeled
properly and
a reason for
each item is
included on
a separate
sheet of
paper.
Neatness
and Effort
exerted
The kit is
somewhat
organized
and it looks
like the
student ran
out of time
or didnt take
care of the
project
3 pts.
4 pts.
A few of
At least 8
At least
the items
items are
10 items
are clearly
clearly
are clearly
necessary
necessary for
necessary
for survival
survival during
for survival
during or after
or after a
during or after
a disaster.
disaster.
a disaster.
21
At least 8
of the items
are labeled
properly and
a reason for
each item is
included on
a separate
sheet of
paper.
At least 10
items are
labeled
properly and
a reason for
each item
is stated on
a separate
sheet of
paper.
The kit
The kit is done
is neatly
well with some
organized
organization
and labeled
and labeling. as necessary.
It appears
Much time
the student
and effort
worked hard
were put into
on it.
creating this
project
source: http://www.redcross.org/
Waterone gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation,
2-week supply for home)
Foodnon-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for
evacuation, 2-week supply for home)
Flashlight
Battery-powered radio
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation and personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical
information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth
certificates, insurance policies)
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact information
Extra cash
Emergency blanket
Map(s) of the area
Summary/Synthesis/Feedback
According to the plate tectonics model, the entire lithosphere of the Earth
is broken into numerous segments called plates.
Each plate is slowly but continuously moving.
As a result of the motion of the plates, three types of plate boundaries
were formed: Divergent, Convergent, and Transform fault boundaries
Divergent boundary is formed when plates move apart, creating a zone
of tension.
Convergent boundary is present when two plates collide.
Transform fault is characterized by plates that are sliding past each
other.
Plate tectonics give rise to several geologic features and events.
22
23
Glossary of Terms
Continental volcanic arc. Mountains formed in part by igneous activity
associated with subduction of oceanic lithosphere beneath a continent.
Convergent boundary. A boundary in which two plates move toward each
other, causing one of the slabs of the lithosphere to subduct beneath an
overriding plate.
Crust. The outer portion of the earth.
Continental Crust. The thick part of the Earths crust, not located under the
ocean.
Oceanic Crust. The thin part of the Earths crust located under the oceans.
Divergent boundary. A region where the crustal plates are moving apart.
Earthquake. Vibration of Earth due to the rapid release of energy.
Fault. A break in a rock along which movement has occurred.
Fracture. Any break in a rock in which no significant movement has taken
place.
Geology. The science that studies Earth.
Hot spot. A concentration of heat in the mantle capable of creating magma.
Magma. A mass of molten rock form from a depth, including dissolved gases
and crystals.
Mid-ocean ridge. A continuous mass of land with long width and height on the
ocean floor.
Plate. Rigid sections of the lithosphere that moves as a unit.
Plate tectonics. A theory which suggests that Earths crust is made up of plates
that interact in various ways, thus producing earthquakes, mountains,
volcanoes and other geologic features.
Primary (P) wave. The first type of seismic wave to be recorded in a seismic
station.
24
25
26
Unit 1
MODULE
Content Standard:
Performance Standard:
Overview
The topic on Plate Tectonics and the processes within the Earths interior
conclude the spiralling concepts in Geology. In fact, Geology is the only strand
discussed in Grade 10 Science because of the topics broadness.
In this module, we focus on the Earths interior structure and processes.
It is also discussed how these processes could possibly have affected the
Earths surface and caused its physical appearance.
There are seven activities in this module which slowly develop the
concept of relating the Earths interior processes with the physical structure of
the Earths surface.
27
After all these activities, a performance task is provided to connect and
conclude the two modules for Earth and Space in this grade. The task is very
important for the learners to understand the nature of our home planet and to
instil in them how they could be part of reducing the risks brought by geologic
phenomena.
In the discussion, it would be best if the teacher focuses and directs the
students towards the development of concepts by answering the following key
questions:
Learning Competencies
28
Answers to Pre-Assessment
Directions:
A. Choose the letter of the correct answer.
For questions 1 and 2, refer to the figure below that shows the cross
section of the Earth as seismic waves travel through it.
29
8. If you are a cartographer, what will give you an idea that the continents
were once joined?
a. Ocean depth
b. Position of the south pole
c. Shape of the continents
d. Size of the Atlantic Ocean
Answer: C
9. Which observation was NOT instrumental in formulating the
hypothesis of seafloor spreading?
a. Depth of the ocean
b. Identifying the location of glacial deposits
c. Magnetization of the oceanic crust
d. Thickness of seafloor sediments
Answer: B
10. As a new seafloor is formed at the mid-ocean ridge, the old seafloor
farthest from the ridge is destroyed. Which of the stated processes
describes how the oceanic crust plunges into the Earth and destroyed
at the mantle?
a. Convection
b. Construction
c. Diversion
d. Subduction
Answer: D
31
The following activity will make the learners differentiate the types and
understand the characteristics of seismic waves. It will prepare them in learning
the properties and composition of the different layers of the Earth.
The teacher can make it as an individual activity for fast-paced learners
or as a group activity for those who are more inclined to group discussion.
32
Activity 1
Amazing Waves!
Answers to questions:
Q1. Differentiate surface waves from body waves.
Surface waves travel only on the Earths surface like ripples of water
while body waves travel through the Earths body (interior). In addition, surface
waves arrive last at seismic recording stations compared to the body waves.
Q2. Which type of wave do you think were useful to seismologists in their study
of the Earths interior? Explain your answer.
The body waves were used by seismologists because they can pass
through the Earths interior.
Allow to perform this activity in a way that the students will realize that it
takes different properties (like reflection and refraction properties of waves) and
characteristics to analyze and differentiate the media where they travel through.
Discuss the characteristics of the seismic waves and how these characteristics
led to the discovery of each layer of the Earth.
15 g cornstarch
2 small cups
20 ml tap water
medicine dropper
stirring rod or spoon
Procedure:
1. Put 15 g cornstarch into one of the beakers. Put 10 ml water into the
other beaker.
2. Add one drop full of water to the cornstarch. Stir the mixture.
Ask the students the question:
How does the mixture react like; solid, liquid or gas?
3. Continue to add water to the mixture, one drop full at a time. Stir the
mixture after each addition.
4. Stop adding water when the mixture becomes difficult to stir.
5. Pour the mixture into your hand.
6. Roll the mixture into a ball and press it.
Let the students explain what they have observed. Facilitate the students
reactions with the following questions:
Q1. How does the mixture behave like?
A1: It behaves like solid.
Q2. How is the mixture of cornstarch and water similar to the
Earths mantle?
A2: The mixture of cornstarch and water behaves like the mantle. It
has the ability to flow slowly..
Q3. How is it different from the Earths mantle?
A3: The cornstarch gained mobility due to addition of water while the
mantles plasticity is due to partial melting aided by the heat of the
inner layers of the earth.
Q4. How does the plasticity of the Earths mantle influence the
movement of the lithospheric plates?
35
Activity 2
Expected Output:
Answers to questions:
Q3. What element is the most abundant in the Earths crust?
Oxygen is the most abundant element in the Earths crust.
Q4. What elements make up most of the mantle?
The elements silicon, oxygen, iron and magnesium make up the
mantle.
36
37
Activity 3
Divide the class into groups of 3 to 4 students and perform the activity as
a group. This will serve as the teachers springboard to the next activity. The
students reasoning ability will be enhanced. Conduct this activity as quickly as
possible.
Answers to questions:
Q10. What features of the newspaper helped you to connect the pieces
perfectly?
Pictures and words in the newspaper helped us to connect the pieces
perfectly.
Q11. How do the lines of prints or texts in the newspaper help you to confirm
that you have reassembled the newspaper/magazine page?
The lines of prints make sure that the newspaper is fitted well.
The words written serve as clues in connecting the pieces of newspaper
together. The completed/connected words confirm that the newspaper
has been reassembled.
Q12. Show proofs that the newspaper is perfectly reassembled.
The answers may vary.
- The picture in the newspaper if completed.
- The broken words were completed/connected.
Activity 4
Drifted Supercontinent!
Answers to questions:
Q13. What does the Glossopteris fossils tell us about the early positions of
the continents?
Since it is impossible for Glossopteris fossils found in different
regions or continents to be blown by the wind or carried by ocean waves,
the only possibility is that these regions were once connected.
38
Q14. If Glossopteris fossils were found in Antarctica, what does this indicate
about the climate of this continent before?
It proves that Antarctica had a tropical climate before.
Q15. If the climate and the position of a place are relative to each other,
where then was the initial location of Antarctica 250 million years ago?
It tells us that Antarctica was nearer to the equator before as
compared to where it is today.
Q16. What does the presence of Mesosaurus fossils tell about the initial
location and position of South America, Africa, and Antarctica?
39
Q21. If the continents will continue to move, try to predict the Philippines
location 100 million years from now.
Answers may vary.
For the purpose of facilitating learning and in preparation for the class
discussion, the teacher must perform the activity first before letting the students
do it in the class.
Activity 5
Split and Separate!
(Adapted)
Answers to questions
Q22. What do the stripes in the paper represent?
The stripes represent the rocks with normal and reverse polarities.
Q23. What does the middle slit represent? What occurs in this region?
The middle slit represents the mid-ocean ridge where the actual
seafloor - spreading occurs.
Q24. What is the role of the midocean ridge in the movement of
plates?
lithospheric
Q27. Is the earth getting larger and wider when plates drift away from each
other? Explain briefly.
The Earth is not getting larger or smaller. If there is the production
of a new seafloor in the mid-ocean ridge, there is a destruction of an old
seafloor at subduction zones.
Activity 6
Adapted (Glencoe Earth Science student edition copyright 2002)
In this activity, students will compute for the rate of seafloor spreading.
After the activity, they will be able to determine the distance a continent moves
for every year. Reiterate to the students that NOT ALL plates move at the same
rate.
Answers to questions
Q28. How far do the plates move away from each other every year?
Answer: 2.5 cm per year
Q29. If Africa is approximately 2,400 km away from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, how
long ago was it when Africa was directly at or near the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?
Answer: 96000000 years or 96 million years
After the activity, the teacher must relate the creation of a new seafloor
with the one that causes it. This will pave the way to the concept of convection
current.
41
Activity 7
(Adapted)
Answers to questions
Q30. How does the food coloring react?
The food color rises and moves to the sides of the beaker then
sinks. It demonstrates a cyclic motion.
Q31. What do you call this behavior?
This is called convection current.
Q32. Enumerate the factors that cause the formation of a current.
The difference in density in the molecules is caused by the difference
in temperature.
The rate of heating at the bottom and the rate of cooling at the top.
Amount of heat supplied to the substance.
Q33. What happens to the blocks? What does this resemble?
The blocks are pushed up to the middle of the boiling water and
then swayed towards the sides of the beaker.
The small, light wood blocks resemble the lithospheric/tectonic
plates that moved about slowly along the tectonic boundaries, pushing,
sliding past and drifting away from each other because of convection
current.
42
The teacher should explain that these are the possible causes of tectonic
activities. Again, reiterate that the processes/activities in the Earths interior
play a role in the processes along Earths surface.
The teacher may opt to end the lesson with a video presentation on the
evolution of the Earth or a video on how magnificent the Earth is if there are
available videos that can be downloaded from the internet.
The teacher should also emphasize that it is impossible to stop these
tectonic activities from happening, but we can do something to mitigate their
effects.
Performance Task
This is the performance task for the students. This activity shows the
effects of geologic activities like volcanic eruptions and earthquake. This could
be an individual or a group activity which aims to motivate students to be part
in mitigating the effects of tectonic activities.
1. The teacher gives a situation where the students acts as a project
engineer who wants to develop a subdivision, a realtor who sells a house
& lot, a geologist visiting his/her hometown or simply a student seeking
to help the government. However, the students are given an option to
choose other characters in the society.
2. The performance task must be given at the start of the first grading
period.
3. This should be presented at the end of the grading period.
4. The teacher must set a date for the learners to present their outputs in
class.
43
5. The teacher may consider the following rubric in rating the students.
Criteria
Details and
information
Has included 5
things or more to
remember before,
during and after
any tectonic
activity.
Has included
4 things to
remember before,
during and after
any tectonic
activity.
Has included
3 things to
remember
before, during
and after any
tectonic activity.
Has included 2
things to remember
before, during and
after any tectonic
activity.
Method of
Presentation
The method of
presentation
is easy to
understand,
unique and
outstanding.
The method of
presentation
is unique and
organized.
The method of
presentation is
organized but
not unique.
The method of
presentation is not
organized and not
unique.
Technique/
Creativity
The presentation/
medium includes
unusual and
interesting
features and
components
that excite the
audience about
the topic and add
to the meaning.
The presentation
/ medium includes
some unusual
and interesting
features that
interest the
audience and
relate to the
meaning.
The presentation
/ medium include
unusual and
interesting
features, but they
do not add to its
meaning.
The presentation /
medium does not
include unusual
or interesting
features.
Accuracy
Information
contains no error.
Information
contains minimal
error, none of
which interferes
with the clarity of
communication
Information
contains minimal
errors, of which
interferes with
the clarity of
communication
Information
contains many
errors.
Feedback
The clientele
understood well
the purpose and
objective was
attained.
The clientele
understood a
little the purpose
and objective
was somewhat
attained.
The clientele
understood the
purpose.
44
The clientele
ignored the
purpose.
Score
Summary/Synthesis/Feedback
The Earth is composed of three main layers: the crust, mantle, and
core which is subdivided into outer core and inner core.
The crust is the outermost and thinnest layer of the Earth.
The mantle is the middle layer of the Earth. It makes most of the
Earths volume and mass.
The crust and a part of the upper mantle make up the lithosphere.
The lithosphere is subdivided into portions called lithospheric
plates.
The asthenosphere is the weak layer of the mantle on which the
lithosphere floats.
The outer core is made up of molten material. The outer core
accounts for the Earths magnetic field.
The inner core is the deepest layer of the Earth. It is made up of
solid nickel and iron. The temperature in the inner core reaches as
high as 5000oC.
The speed, reflection and refraction properties of seismic waves
are used by scientists to study the structure and composition of the
Earths interior.
The Continental Drift Theory of Alfred Wegener states that the
continents were once a part of a large landmass called Pangaea
which splits apart and the continents moved away from each other
towards their current positions.
Alfred Wegener based his theory on evidences from fossils
embedded in rocks and rock formations.
Seafloor spreading is believed to occur as hot magma rises at the
rift in the mid-ocean ridge. This magma cools down and becomes
the new seafloor as it pushes the former.
The old seafloor is destroyed at the subduction zone and melts
inside the mantle.
The age of rocks and the magnetic stripes in the ocean floor support
the seafloor spreading theory.
The theory of plate tectonics helps explain the formation and
destruction of the Earths crust and its movement over time.
Scientists believe that the plates movement is due to convection
currents in the mantle.
45
Summative Assessment
A. Choose the letter of the correct answer.
1. In 1912, Alfred Wegener proposed a theory that the Earth is once a
single landmass. What is the name of the Mesozoic Supercontinent
that consisted of all of the present continents?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Eurasia
Laurasia
Pangaea
Gondwanaland
Answer: C
2. Who were the two scientists who proposed the theory of seafloor
spreading in the early 1960s?
a.
b.
c.
d.
B. D.
Answer: A
46
a.
b.
c.
d.
3 kilometers
30 kilometers
300 kilometers
3000 kilometers
Answer: B
a.
b.
c.
d.
7. Which of the following can you infer from the continuous movement
of the lithospheric plates over the asthenosphere?
47
8. If all the inner layers of the Earth are firm solid, what could have
happened to Pangaea?
a.
b.
c.
d.
It remained as a supercontinent.
It would have become as it is today.
It would have slowly disappeared in the ocean.
It would have stretched and covered the whole world.
Answer: A
9. Why does the oceanic crust sink beneath the continental crust at the
subduction zone?
a.
b.
c.
d.
10. The lithospheric plates are believed to be moving slowly. What is the
driving force that facilitates this movement?
a.
b.
c.
d.
48
Plate Tectonic
Theory
49
Glossary of Terms
Asthenosphere. Soft, weak upper portion of the mantle where the lithospheric
plates float and move around.
Continental Drift Theory. States that all the continents were once one large
landmass that broke apart and where the pieces moved slowly to their
current locations.
Convection current. Current in the mantle due to the heat from the inner layers
of the Earth and is the force that drives the plates to move around.
Lithosphere. The topmost, solid part of the Earth that is composed of several
plates.
Lithospheric Plates. The moving, irregularly shaped slabs that fit together to
form the surface of the Earth.
Mid-ocean ridge. Area in the middle of the ocean where new ocean floor is
formed when lava erupts through the cracks in the Earths crust.
Mohorovicic Discontinuity (Moho). The boundary that separates the crust
and the mantle.
Plasticity. The ability of solid to flow.
Seafloor spreading. A process by which new ocean floor is formed near the
mid-ocean ridge and moves outward.
Subduction. The process in which the crust plunges back into the Earth.
Tectonics. Branch of Geology that deals with the movements that shape the
Earths crust.
50
51
Internet
http://www.geomag.bgs.ac.uk/education/reversals.html accessed March 1,
2014
https://www.princeton.edu/~achaney/tmve/wiki100k/docs/Asthenosphere.html
accessed March 1, 2014
http://www.learner.org/courses/essential/earthspace/session3/closer2.htm
accessed March 3, 2014
http://loki.stockton.edu/~hozikm/geol/Courses/The%20Earth/Content%20Web
%20Pages/Bugielski/webpage.htm accessed February 28, 2014
http://www.cyberphysics.co.uk/topics/earth/geophysics/Seismic%20Waves%
20Reading.htm accessed March 1, 2014
http://rieson.blogspot.com/2013/02/birth-of-earth.html accessed March 1,
2014
http://www.yourdictionary.com/magnetic-reversal accessed March 31, 2014
http://www.learner.org/courses/essential/earthspace/session3/closer2.htm
accessed March 3, 2014
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/dinosaurs/glossary/Contdrift.html
accessed March 7, 2014
52