Puzzling Plates
© 2011 Tasa Graphic Arts, Inc.
Dry but efficient, this app turns the tectonic plates into a jigsaw puzzle that you can drag and drop into place. There are three types of puzzles; all hard, in part because the parts aren't shown in proportional size. Each consists of a timed challenge along with a bonus round. In Level 1, you learn how tectonic plates fit together by moving them into position like a jigsaw puzzle. You must get it right on the first move or you lose points. In Level 2, you will see where earthquakes and volcanoes form on the Earth's surface and explore the Earth's interior. In Level 3, you first see how plate boundaries collide and split apart and then you move tectonic plates in different directions to find out what type of boundary is shown. The puzzles are dry and hints are vague. However, the app is effective in helping you visualize how the plates fit together. It is, after all, a giant jigsaw puzzle. Middle and high school earth science teachers, take note of this app.
$1.99, iPad
Teaches: earth science, tectonic plates, geology
CTR Rating: 74%