Zoned Plagioclase Exercise

R. K. Smith

The University of Texas at San Antonio

Summary

The purpose of this exercise is to:

become familiar with the various types of zoning found to occur in plagioclase feldspars,
be able to recognize and identify the various zoning types, and
be able to interpret the petrogenesis of the various zoning types from optical and microprobe data.

Additionally, the exercise is to give the student an opportunity to interpret analytical data and to engage in critical thinking as it relates to igneous petrology of volcanic rocks.

Geochemical Analysis, Volcanology, Geochemistry, Igneous Processes, ...(more) | College Lower (13-14), College Upper (15-16)

Expand for more detail and links to related resources

Used this activity? Share your experiences and modifications

Context

Audience

This exercise is designed for a sophomore or junior level petrology course that is required for majors.

Skills and concepts that students must have mastered

How the activity is situated in the course

This is a stand-alone exercise.

Goals

Content/concepts goals for this activity

This activity is designed to improve students' understanding of zoning that occurs in plagioclase feldspars.

Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity

This activity involves critical thinking and data analysis.

Other skills goals for this activity

This activity involves group work.

Description of the activity/assignment

The purpose of this exercise is to:

become familiar with the various types of zoning found to occur in plagioclase feldspars,
be able to recognize and identify the various zoning types, and
be able to interpret the petrogenesis of the various zoning types from optical and microprobe data.

Additionally, the exercise is to give the student an opportunity to interpret analytical data and to engage in critical thinking as it relates to igneous petrology of volcanic rocks.

Determining whether students have met the goals

Students have successfully completed this exercise if they completely and accurately answer the questions and follow instructions given in the exercise handout.

More information about assessment tools and techniques.