Students learn about the ring of fire and discover earthquakes that occur along that zone, including current daily occurrences. Map skills are reinforced through students' plotting earthquake occurrences using large group physical activities and graphics programs. Students access specific information desired for the lesson from the USGS vast website, according to predetermined hotlinks. Students also access faculty generated questions and a map that is to be used during the print or graphics manipulation activity. The goals of the lesson include students' obtained knowledge regarding the location and frequency of earthquakes throughout the world.
Students also reinforce table and map reading skills.
Interpretation of these tables and maps extend students' abilities to interpret graphs and other graphical information. Technology skills include the use of the Web and graphics programs. I use this lesson after the class has studied plate tectonics and faulting. This reduces confusion when students access the site. Some of the faster students prefer to work alone on this and compare answers when they have completed it.