Plate Tectonics
August 5th-10th, 2012, Penn State, University Park
Workshop FAQ
The paradigm of plate tectonics is central to understanding the dynamic nature of our earth and explaining its observable features (volcanoes, earthquakes and mountains). This workshop is designed to develop both practical and conceptual knowledge of plate tectonics as well as to promote innovative approaches to teaching earth science. Participants will engage with a suite of guided and inquiry-based classroom activities to help move students' understanding of earth's observable features from the descriptive to the interpretive. Participants will work to develop a shared sense of how these features and the processes that create them are related to one another through plate tectonics.
Prior to the workshop, participants will complete a common non-technical read, participate in an online discussion, and view key videos as needed to develop a common foundational content background. Participants will bring samples of current curricular materials and student work to share, discuss and revise. All curricular materials and exercises used during the workshop will be provided for participants. We strongly encourage teams of teachers from the same school or district to apply. This can include both horizontal (within a grade level) or vertical (across grade levels) teams across. Participants will also be asked to attend three reunions during the academic year, at least one of which will be held in their region/district.