Discuss the importance of plate tectonics as the unifying concept in earth science. (STSE)

Explain the key principles and driving forces of plate tectonics theory including how the theory subsumes ideas related to continental drift. (K)

Research the development of the continental drift hypothesis, including the evidence (e.g., fossil, mineral, ancient climates and continental shape) scientists used to support this hypothesis. (K, S, STSE)

Discuss the scientific belief that the movement of tectonic plates was responsible for the formation and break up of continents (e.g., Pangea, Rodinia and Gondwana) over geological time. (K, STSE)

Describe the formation of geological features (e.g., ocean trenches, mid-ocean ridges, transform faults, mountain ranges and island arcs) associated with convergent, divergent and transform boundaries, with referenceto the asthenosphere, lithosphere and mantle convection. (K)

Correlate the world distribution of mountain ranges, volcanoes and earthquakes with the location, boundaries and movement of lithospheric plates. (K, STSE)

Model the movement of lithospheric plates over geologic time and relate this to the geologic history of Saskatchewan. (S)

Analyze data,using tools such as satellite photos and the Global Positioning System (GPS),to determine the rate of relative lithospheric plate motion. (S)

Predict the locations of future plate boundaries based on current lithospheric plate movement rates and compare with scientific predictions. (S)

Consider which celestial bodies (e.g., Mars, Europa and exoplanets) could have or could not have geological features that might be explained by plate tectonics. (K)