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About This Simulation
Explore real-world, iconic landforms created by different boundaries between tectonic plates. Determine if a plate boundary is convergent, divergent, or transform, and learn how continental and oceanic crust can influence the type of landform created.
Learning Objectives
- Describe the three different types of plate boundaries and their features
- Apply plate tectonics theory to explain the age of crustal rocks
- Identify real examples of plate boundaries across the globe
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
Related Standards
- ESS2.B-H1
Learn More About This Simulation
How do plate boundaries influence the Earth's surface? In this simulation, you will dive underwater in a submarine to collect samples of crustal rocks for analysis. You will return to the lab to construct each type of plate boundary and explore the landforms they create.
Create the different plate boundaries
Many volcanoes, mountain ranges, faults, and other landforms are the result of plate boundaries. But which boundaries cause which landforms, and why? By analyzing real-life examples such as the Himalayas, the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and the San Andreas Fault, you will be able to determine whether each landform is the result of a convergent, divergent or transform boundary. Our hi-tech holo-floor will even give you the ability to change the crust and relative motion of the plates, allowing you to recreate each boundary and observe how some of the world's most iconic landforms were created.
Analyze the ages of crustal rocks
Oh no … your crustal rock samples have been mixed up! Using our 3D interactive map displaying the ages of oceanic crust across the world, it's your task to determine at which location each sample was collected. From there, you will analyze the age and distribution of continental crust samples, allowing you to dig deeper and compare both types of crust to identify the key differences. Head back to the submarine
At the end of the simulation, you will return to one of your sample sites in the submarine. This site is a famous landform caused by a specific plate boundary. Will you be able to figure out what type of boundary has caused it?
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For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.