Simulation Procedures and Observations

The video tutorial guides students through using a tectonic simulator. It starts with opening the simulator via a link, setting up the first model by selecting options and adding force vectors, and configuring menu settings. Students create a cross-section to view the model in 3D, run the simulation to observe plate movements and volcanic activity, and finally complete the activity by documenting their observations and resetting the simulator for further exploration.

What is the first step after opening the Tectonic Explorer student copy?

• Select the 'Settings' option

• Click the tiny URL link

• Open the 'Help' menu

• Click the 'Start' button

In the first model, how should the force vectors be arranged?

• Pointing downwards

• Pointing upwards

• Pointing towards each other

• Moving apart from each other

What should you do after selecting the necessary simulation options?

• Click 'Open'

• Click 'Exit'

• Click 'Close'

• Click 'Save'

Where is the 'Draw Cross Section' option located?

• Bottom left of the screen

• Top center of the screen

• Top right of the screen

• Bottom center of the screen

What is observed when the plates spread apart in the simulation?

• Volcanic activity is visible

• Earthquakes occur

• Mountains rise

• Tsunamis form

What is the purpose of the cross-section in the simulation?

• To measure the plate velocity

• To see a side view of the Earth's activity

• To view the topography

• To calculate the force vectors

What should you do if you cannot create a sketch online?

• Ask for help

• Take a screenshot of the model

• Write a description instead

• Skip the step

What should you do after observing the simulation results?

• Change the model settings

• Close the simulator

• Restart the computer

• Document the observations

How do you return to the beginning setup for the simulator?

• Click 'Restart'

• Click 'Reload'

• Click 'Back'

• Click 'Home'

What should you do to ensure success with the activity?

• Skip difficult steps

• Follow the directions on the student handout

• Watch the video multiple times

• Ask the teacher for help