[ PhysicalGeology ]


Geology 100 (Physical Geology) 4 UNITS  
 
 
This is an introductory course in geology, the scientific study of the Earth. We will study the Earth’s physical processes, structures and composition which include coverage of the Earth’s internal processes, such as those that cause earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain building, and (limited coverage of) external processes, such as rivers and waves, wind, glaciers and the landforms that result from these processes; and the nature and origin of rocks and minerals that form the Earth’s crust along with structures related to folding and faulting.
  
 
The physical geology lab course is designed to cover the same (or related) geologic topics that are presented in the lecture portion of the course (simultaneously), to help the student gain a better understanding of the lecture material through hands-on applications in the lab.
  
  Code # Time Days Room  
  20840 8:35 - 11:45 am MW 2800  
  20841
11:50 - 3:00 pm
 TR 2800  
Class Text Book:      
  Essentials of Geology by Lutgens/Tarbuck, 9th Edition  
Class Lab Book:    
  Lab Manual in Physical Geology, by Busch/Tasa, 7th Edition
  "You will need your books immediately!"  
Objective:    
 
By the end of this course, students will gain a better understanding and appreciation of their physical environment and the knowledge of how to link observable geologic features to Earth’s physical processes. Students will gain an understanding of geologic concepts, the skills and ability to apply basic geologic observation and field methods, and an understanding of the practical application of geology to their lives.
  

Lab Work:

    
 
We will use assignments from your lab book. In most cases you will be able to work in teams during the lab classes. Labs are usually due on the same day. The lab work is a significant part of your grade, and involves showing up, participating and completing the work (demonstrating knowledge of the topics covered). Do not miss lab days, there is no time for make up labs.
  
Field Trips:      
 
Plan on one mandatory field trip (and one, optional extra credit field trip), we will work out the details together in class. There will be an assignment related to the mandatory field trip.
 
Lecture Papers:      
 
One (possibly two) online (web) assignments are required for this class (currently one is scheduled over volcanoes during the week of Sept 24-28). This assignment is found on my website (see below).
 
Grading:      
 
Chapter questions are assigned almost every week (over 14 chapters) and quizzes will be given (4 total). You are expected to turn in homework assignments over questions related to most of the chapters we will cover. Quizzes will also be given over these chapters. If you read the chapters do the assigned chapter questions, you should do well on the quizzes. It is important that you do the chapter questions on your own (don’t copy a classmates), in order to understand the material and do well on the quizzes. I encourage you to work with others on your chapter questions, but again, put together your own answers.
 
  The grading scale is as follows:    
  88-100% A      
  76-87% B      
  64-75% C      
  52-63% D      
 

I will curve scores at the end of the semester, based on the highest accumulated score by a student.

  
  Each quiz is worth 80 points; all but one will be open notes!
(but you will not know which one)...		  
Attendance:      
 
Regular class attendance is important for students to accomplish the work necessary to successfully complete this course. You are responsible for all material presented in class even if you miss for a legitimate reason (e.g., illness, family emergency, etc.). Please notify me in advance if you cannot attend, and arrange to get class notes from another student. In-class assignments, as well as scheduled quizzes, labs and field trips cannot be made up if missed (except by legitimate reasons, which are few). Please note that by IVC rules, three (3) un-excused absences may result in you being dropped from the class.
  
 Note:      
  Any student with a documented disability who may need educational accommodations should notify the instructor or the Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSP&S) office as soon as possible. DSP&S is located in room 2117 of the Health Sciences Building, phone (760) 355-6312.