Activity Summary: Students will be able to simulate and analyze impact structures using a physical model, apply observations their model to identify possible impact structure evidence preserved in the Yucatan peninsula landforms, use a digital model to make inferences about the magnitude of the Chicxulub impact event, and synthesize core data with initial model observations to compose a scientific explanation (justification) that supports the claim that the K-Pg Boundary is a result of the Chicxulub meteorite impact event.

In this lesson, students investigate meteorite impact craters and analyze evidence for the K/Pg (formerly known as K/T) boundary impact event and its relationship to the extinction of the dinosaurs. In Part A they will engage using a hands-on model to simulate meteorite impact structures. In Part B students will explore cenote locations of the Yucatan peninsula to visualize the hidden Chicxulub impact structure. In Part C students will analyze JOIDES Resolution core data before composing a scientific explanation. This series can be part of an Earth History Unit and/or included with other topics such as landscapes, astronomy, or rocks and minerals.

This lesson has been revised and updated based on Impact Craters and the K-Pg Boundary.