ConcepTest: Spreading Rate of Spreading Center
This material was originally created for
Starting Point:Introductory Geology and is replicated here as part of the SERC Pedagogic Service.
Question:
Scientists collect rock samples of the oceanic crust from a location that is 10 km from a spreading center. (1 km = 1000 m; 1 m = 100 cm; 1 cm = 10 mm.) The sampled rocks were found to be 200,000 years old. What can you say about the spreading rate of the spreading center?
a. It is much slower than expected.
b. It is in the expected range.
c. It is much faster than expected.
a. It is much slower than expected.
b. It is in the expected range.
c. It is much faster than expected.
Student Responses:
No data yet. The correct response is B.
If you would like to help acquire more Before and After statistics for this example, please contact the authors (see link at top of page).
References and Notes:
The use of ConcepTests and Peer Instruction is discussed in detail on the ConcepTest page.
McConnell, D.A., Steer, D.N. and Owens, K.A., 2003, Assessment and Active Learning Strategies for Introductory Geology Courses, Journal of Geoscience Education, 51(2), 205-216.
McConnell, D.A., Steer et al., 2006, Using Conceptests to Assess and Improve Student Conceptual Understanding in Introductory Courses, Journal of Geoscience Education, (54(1), 61-68.