SCIE103 Physical Geology

Department of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics: Science

  1. Course Number and Title

    SCIE103 Physical Geology

  2. Number of Credits

    4 credits

  3. Minimum Number of Instructional Minutes Per Semester

    3750

  4. Prerequisites

    Reading Placement Test score Level 3 or READ110 (C or better)
    Math Placement test score of 5 or higher or MATH095 (C or better)

    Corequisites

    None

  5. Other Pertinent Information

    Format is lecture-laboratory and includes in-class and/or online presentation of content and laboratory material.

    Topics are presented in various modes which may include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following: traditional and/or online lectures, group and/or individual activities, small group discussions, computer simulations and library research.

  6. Catalog Course Description

    This laboratory-based course introduces the basic principles and processes of geology. Emphasis is on a wide range of topics, including rocks and minerals, topographic maps, surface processes, hydrologic systems, plate tectonics, and the earth’s interior.

  7. Required Course Content and Direction

    1. Learning Goals:

      1. Course
        2. Students will:
        1. identify the major rocks and minerals;
        2. describe the rock and hydrologic cycles; and
        3. describe the dynamics of plate tectonics.

      2. Core (if applicable)
        3. Category I
        Mathematics or Science
         Students will:
        1. accurately translate descriptive problems into mathematical formulas and solve them.
        2. apply the scientific method by explaining and identifying its components in a variety of situations.
        3. evaluate and graph data.

        Category III
        Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
         Students will:
        1. demonstrate an understanding of problem solving by recognizing the problem, reviewing information about the problem, developing plausible solutions, and evaluating the results.

    2. Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities:

      1. scientific method
      2. minerals, rocks, the rock cycle
      3. radiometric dating, geologic time scale
      4. topographic maps
      5. weathering, erosion, mass wasting
      6. plate tectonics, earth’s interior, plate boundaries
      7. earthquakes, volcanism, mountain building
      8. hydrologic cycle
      9. rivers, groundwater, glaciers
      10. oceans, shorelines and energy

    3. Assessment Methods for Core Learning Goals:

      1. Course
        2. The evaluative tools include any or all of the following as specified by the individual instructor’s course format: objective examinations, class participation, field trip and research reports, online activities and discussion, quizzes, projects and papers.

      2. Core (if applicable)

        3. Math or Science: The evaluation and graphing of data as obtained during laboratory exercises are assigned.

        Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: At least one critical thinking writing assignment related to one of the Planned Topics is assigned. Problem solving exercises related to data obtained during laboratory exercises are included.

        Other Evaluative Tools: Exams, quizzes, class participation, and projects as specified in the individual instructor’s course format are utilized.

      3. Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Students:

        Students use educational resources as approved by the department and specified in the individual instructor’s format.

    4. Teaching Methods Employed

      Section VIII is not being used in new and revised syllabi as of 12/10/08.

    Review/Approval Date - 12/07; Core Goals/Objectives added 11/04; Revised 7/2010; 5/2013