ConcepTest: Characteristics of the Ocean Floor
This material was originally created for
Starting Point:Introductory Geology and is replicated here as part of the SERC Pedagogic Service.
Question:
What is the relationship between age and the character of the ocean floor? Which statement is TRUE?
a. Deeper regions of the ocean floor tend to be younger
b. The Pacific is larger than the Atlantic because it contains older oceanic floor
c. Oldest oceanic crust is only present near trenches
d. Youngest oceanic crust is near the ridges
a. Deeper regions of the ocean floor tend to be younger
b. The Pacific is larger than the Atlantic because it contains older oceanic floor
c. Oldest oceanic crust is only present near trenches
d. Youngest oceanic crust is near the ridges
Student Responses:
The correct answer is D.
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.