Step 4: Constructing a Scientific Model
Now it's time to build your definitive scientific model. Follow these three steps:
Step 1: Draw the Evolution
- Print 4 copies of the Grid to Draw and Design (one for each geological period)
- Make a drawing of the shape and position of the continents at the different stages of its evolution
- Distinguish which of your statements are very probable (because you have lots of evidences of it) and which are just hypothesis (because you have few or very weak evidences)
Step 2: Locate Plate Boundaries
From this evolution, and together with all the information available:
- Situate on these maps the edges of the tectonic plates
- Determine which kind of limits are (constructive, destructive, transformant)
- Determine the direction of their movement
Step 3: Make a Prediction
- Make a prediction about the position of the continents in the next stage
- Create a list of the significant geologic events that should be observed
Remember: Good scientists don't just describe - they also predict future observations based on their models!