Plate Tectonics Project STEM Challenges | Seismograph | Continental Drift

Plate Tectonics STEM Challenges
The perfect challenges for students who are studying Plate Tectonics and Earth Science!

This resource has science, technology, engineering, and measurement activities to do with your upper elementary kids that will really enhance their learning!

There are 2 Plate Tectonic STEM Challenges in this pack. Each STEM Challenge has detailed directions, photo examples, a list of materials needed, prediction section, brainstorming section, trials 1, 2, & 3, final results section with drawings, and a reflection section.

The STEM Challenges include:

1. Seismograph Challenge!
Using a list of supplies, students must design a seismograph that can record movement or shaking. The seismograph must have a base, a hanging weight, and a frame. The paper that the seismic waves are recorded on must be able to be pulled through the device so new data can be recorded. The P and S waves must be labeled in their data. Students have 2 hours to complete this challenge. If they test their seismograph and it does not work properly, they have two more attempts to fix their design. (Testing time does not count towards the two hour time limit)

2. Earthquake-Resistant Bridge Challenge! Using a list of supplies, students must construct a bridge that can withstand a major earthquake. The structure must be flexible enough so it can absorb the shaking, but not fall apart. The bridge must have a base made up of cups that can be shaken to show its flexibility. The bridge cannot be longer than 20 inches. Students have 2 hours to complete this challenge. If they test their bridge and it falls apart, they have two more attempts to fix their design. (Testing time does not count towards the two hour time limit) After all the groups have created their bridges, they must prove how their design is the most earthquake-resistant. The group with the best design wins the challenge!


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You may be interested in these aligned Plate Tectonic resources…
Plate Tectonics Interactive Notebook

Plate Tectonics Interactive PowerPoint
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This resource is part of the Earth Science STEM Bundle

Biomes STEM Challenge
Ecosystems STEM Challenge
Weather STEM Challenges
Energy STEM Challenges
Plate Tectonics STEM Challenges
Rock Cycle STEM Challenges
Photosynthesis STEM Challenges
Volcanoes STEM Challenges
Earth’s Cycles - Water STEM Challenges
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