This lesson explains the application of relative dating for volcanic features in the ocean. The initial lecture focuses on the concept of relative dating. Relative dating of island chains was a fundamental step toward the development of the hotspot theory utilized over 100 years before the hotspot theory was introduced. The relative dating activity allows students to practice relatively dating of volcanic features. After seeing the relative dating lesson, they have the tools necessary to identify which volcanic features are relatively older than others. This lesson includes 10 images of different volcanic stages of seamount formation as envisioned by Charles Darwin in the 1800's.