Activity Summary: Students will be able to use a model to qualitatively predict the conditions and geometry of a subduction zone and analyze maps and ocean coring data to make an argument as to whether there is a subduction zone off the west coast of Costa Rica.

Students will investigate one type of convergent plate boundary (subduction zones) by using a hands-on model and analyzing ocean drilling data. Students will gather evidence from a series of images to determine if an area is a subduction zone. Prior to completing this lesson, students should have an understanding of plate tectonics and differences between oceanic and continental crust (specifically differences in density and thickness).

This lesson has been revised and updated based on Subduction Zone Conditions.