SHS2 Geography · Semester 1 Week 2: The Earth and Its Features

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 2.1.1.LI.2 - Explain the concept of continental drift and discuss the supporting evidence

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define the concept of continental drift and explain the role of Alfred Wegener in proposing the theory.
Describe Pangaea and explain how the present-day continents were formed from this supercontinent.
Identify and explain at least four pieces of evidence that support the theory of continental drift (jigsaw fit, fossil evidence, rock and mountain chain correlation, and climatic evidence).
Discuss critically the limitations of Wegener’s theory, including why scientists rejected it at the time.
Present findings on continental drift in small groups, using oral, written, and visual communication.

Sign in with your phone number to read the full note and download the GES plan - free.

Sign in with phone number

Curriculum details

Strand: The Earth and Its Neighbourhoods (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: The Earth and Its Features (1.1)
Content standard: 2.1.1.CS.1 - 2.1.1.CS.1 Demonstrate an understanding of the internal structure of the earth and the concept of continental drift 2.1.1.LO.1 With reference to the shape and movement of the earth, discuss the concept of continental drift
Indicator: 2.1.1.LI.2 - Explain the concept of continental drift and discuss the supporting evidence
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 2 (Week 2 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 65

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Exploratory Learning: Research about continental from various sources including the internet, library and books.
Collaborative Learning: In small mixed-gender groups of assigned roles, discuss the concept and evidence of continental drift using available sources and present findings. Learners should consider the emotions of individuals who struggle to express themselves.

Assessment (2.1.1.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.

Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Pictures - Pictures of the continents, - Videos showing continental drift
- Diagrams of the internal structure of - Physical models (Jigsaw-puzzles) - World map the earth
- Globe