How are Islands Created?
The Hawaiian Islands
The Hawaiian Islands: ‘the Big Island’, Hawaii, at bottom right. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaii
Hawaii is the northernmost island group in Polynesia, occupying most of an archipelago in the central Pacific Ocean, southwest of the continental United States. Hawaii’s natural beauty, warm tropical climate, inviting waters and waves make it a popular destination for tourists, surfers, and biologists.
The Kingdom of Tonga
The main island Tongatapu, one of 170 in the flotilla of Tonga. Source: http://www.ocscsailing.com/vacations/flotillas/tonga.php and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonga
This Polynesian kingdom in the South Pacific traces its history back a thousand years. The real Mutiny on the Bounty occurred in the waters here in 1789. The 170 islands—34 of them inhabited—make a popular and beautiful destination for tourists. This island chain is known as “The Friendly Islands.”
How Were These Islands Created?
Brainstorm ways you think these island groups were created.
From your list of ideas, circle the one reason you think is the best hypothesis for the formation of these island groups.
Use the appendices of resources to check your hypothesis.
Appendix / What facts did I learn that help me understand how islands are formed?#1- Plate Boundaries
Does this information help to prove your hypothesis?
Modify your hypothesis here:
#2- Ring of Fire
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Use the appendices of resources to refine your answers.
Appendix / What facts did I learn that help me understand how islands are formed?#3- Plate Boundaries Ocean Floor
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#4- Tectonic Plate Boundaries
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Use the appendices of resources to refine your answers.
Appendix / What facts did I learn that help me understand how islands are formed?#5- Islands of Hawaii
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#6- Islands of Tonga
Does this information help to prove your hypothesis?
Modify your hypothesis here: