How are islands formed?
there are four basic types and they are covered in this clip. Island types The islands discussed here are of three kinds: continental islands, oceanic islands, and coral islands. Not discussed are inland islands, such as islands found in the middle of a lake. Continental islands Continental islands are parts of the continental shelf that rise above the surrounding water. That is, they are situated on the shallow water margin of a continent, usually in water less than 600 ft (200 m) deep. Greenland, the largest island in the world, and Newfoundland are examples of continental islands. A drop in sea level would be sufficient to connect these islands to the North American continent. Another, rarer kind of continental island consists of small pieces of continental material that broke away from a land mass. These islands are now part of a separate crustal plate that is following an independent path. The Seychelles in the Indian Ocean were once associated with the Madagascar-India portion of
This lesson will provide students with information about how islands are formed, including a basic knowledge of plate tectonics. Using the islands of Hawaii as an example, students will learn about the earth processes that cause the formation of islands over time, including volcanoes and “hot spots.
In this Xpeditions lesson, students learn information about how islands are formed, including a basic knowledge of plate tectonics. Activities in this lesson engage students in whole class discussion, small group collaboration, and online learning. Students will: • learn the basic scientific ideas behind plate tectonics and continental drift; • think about how these principles help shape our understanding of island formation; • learn about how islands are formed; and • create a presentation based on a specific aspect of island formation. Xpeditions provides detailed instructions for completing the lesson, suggestions for assessment and extension activities, and links to helpful maps and web resources.
