Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the concept of Pangea and how it broke apart to form the continents we see today through interactive mapping.
Materials and Prep
- A computer or tablet with internet access
- Access to an interactive Pangea mapping website or software
- Curiosity and enthusiasm to learn about Earth's history!
Activities
- Pangea Puzzle: Use the interactive map to piece together the continents to form Pangea. Explore how they fit together like a giant jigsaw puzzle.
- Continental Drift Simulation: Experiment with the movement of the continents over millions of years. See how they drifted apart to their current positions.
- Volcanic Eruptions: Learn how volcanic activity played a role in the breakup of Pangea. Explore the hotspots and eruptions that shaped the Earth's surface.
Talking Points
- Continents Puzzle: "Imagine all the continents were connected like a giant jigsaw puzzle long ago. That's how Pangea looked like!"
- Drifting Continents: "Just like how icebergs move in water, continents move too! They drift slowly over millions of years."
- Volcanic Activity: "Volcanoes are like Earth's pressure valves. When they erupt, they release hot lava that can create new land."