The objective of this activity is to allow students to manipulate real data and understand how such data are interpreted and used in support of a theory. The concepts studied are maps, earthquakes, and plate tectonics, particularly a subduction zone plate boundary. The student will learn or be refreshed on using latitude and longitude for mapping purposes. The activity should be used in a unit on plate tectonics so that the student has a basic understanding of plate theory, boundaries, and types of crust. It is also useful to guide a class discussion about the different types of evidence used to support the theory of plate tectonics. Educational levels: High school, Undergraduate lower division
