ConcepTest: Magnetic Inclination
This material was originally created for
Starting Point:Introductory Geology and is replicated here as part of the SERC Pedagogic Service.
Initial Publication Date: May 8, 2006
Question:
The diagram below shows the magnetic inclination determined for three lava flows preserved in a cliff. (Assume that Earth's magnetic field was in the same orientation as it is today.) What happened to the plate on which these rocks were formed?
The plate moved toward the _______ in the ________ Hemisphere.
a. Equator; Southern
b. Equator; Northern
c. Pole; Southern
d. Pole; Northern
The plate moved toward the _______ in the ________ Hemisphere.
a. Equator; Southern
b. Equator; Northern
c. Pole; Southern
d. Pole; Northern
Student Responses:
No data yet. The correct response is C.
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.