• The arrows show different types of tectonic forces like convergence, divergence, and subduction.
• Earth’s plates are labeled and shown interacting at their boundaries.
• The Great Rift Valley is labeled in East Africa near a divergent boundary.
• Volcanoes and mountain ranges appear where plates collide.
• Different boundary types (convergent, divergent, subduction) have distinct movements.

EXTENDING THE DISCUSSION
After the observational question, randomly call on one or more students to share what they or their partner answered. Then ask the class, “Did anyone notice…?” using the suggestions above or anything else you’ve noticed.

• Why do some tectonic forces cause mountains and others cause valleys?
• How do scientists know where plate boundaries are?
• What happens to people living near subduction zones?
• How fast do tectonic plates move?
• Why is the Great Rift Valley important to geology?

EXTENDING THE DISCUSSION
After students have shared what they notice, ask the class, “Did anyone wonder…?” using the suggestions above or anything else you might think is interesting or relevant to the lesson.

To the observational question, What are tectonic forces?

LOW-LEVEL

Tectonic forces are how Earth’s plates move and change the land.



HIGH-LEVEL

Tectonic forces are movements of Earth’s plates that shape physical features like mountains, valleys, and trenches through processes such as convergence, divergence, and subduction.

RESPONDING TO RESPONSES
Emphasize and celebrate each student’s use of the key vocabulary to support a culture of “no wrong answers.”