Throughout the lesson, formative assessments can be made to determine students' ability to download data from an online database, import data into a spreadsheet, and create graphs. In addition, more formal assessments might include:

• Given the location of an earthquake (latitude and longitude) and a map showing tectonic plate boundaries, students should explain whether the earthquake is most likely the result of activity at plate boundaries or some other geologic phenomena.
  
  
• A thrill seeking friend of yours says, "I really want to experience an earthquake!" Using the USGS earthquake database and your knowledge of earthquakes, suggest the top three destinations your friend might travel to for the best chance at an earth shaking holiday. Provide reasons to support your chosen destinations.