Fault line

Fault line

Pencil and paperOnline interactive
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses
Working with Students
Further Resources
This task is about layers of rock.

Question Change answer

a)  Sometimes a large road cutting shows a pattern like this.
  1. Draw an arrow on the diagram to show the fault line.
  2. Mark an X on the youngest rock layer in the diagram below.

Question 2Change answer

b)  The structure of the rock layers above has been altered since these layers were first laid down.
     Give two explanations of what may have happened to cause the present appearance of the rock layers.
1.
2.
Task administration: 
This task can be completed with pencil and paper or online.
Copyright: 
Graphic: copyright NZCER
Level:
5
Curriculum info: 
Science, Communicating in science, Planet Earth
Keywords: 
Earth systems, fault lines, rock layers, rocks
Description of task: 
Students are provided with a diagram of a roadside cutting. They are asked to mark the fault line and the youngest rock layer in this cutting. Students then suggest two explanations for the pattern shown in the diagram.
Curriculum Links: 
Science capabilities
The capabilities focus is brought about by the conversations you have and the questions you ask.
 
Capability: Interpret representations
Scientists represent their ideas in a variety of ways, including models, graphs, charts, diagrams and written texts. Scientists represent their ideas in a variety of ways, including models, graphs, charts, diagrams and written texts. This resource provides opportunities to discuss:
  • noticing patterns in data shown in a diagram
  • the evidence provided in a diagram that can be used to make inferences.
Science capabilities: 
Interpret representations
Answers/responses: 

 

Y10 (06/2000)

a)

i)
ii)

Diagram

very easy
easy

b)

  

Any 2 of:

  • Uplifting/change of sea level (lower).
  • Earth movement has created a fault line along which are now found non-corresponding layers.
  • Tilting.
  • Erosion of material.
  • Deposition of material by river/volcano.
 2 correct – very difficult

1 correct – easy

 

Diagnostic and formative information: 
  Common error

a) ii)

14% of students indicated the top layer on the right hand side.
10% of students indicated the second layer down on the left hand side.

b)

Analysis of correct responses:

  • Earth movement – 70% of all correct responses.
  • Erosion – 10%
  • All other answers less than 5%.