GEO 1010      Introduction to Geology



Credits:   3.0

Taught by:   Peter VanValkenburg, Jerry D. Harris

Semesters offered:   Fall, Spring, and Summer

Formats:   Classroom instruction

General education requirements fulfilled:   PS - Physical Science

Fee:   $15.00

Course Description:

Introduction to Geology is a 3-credit general education course for non-science majors, stressing an appreciation for our scenic landscapes, the processes that formed them, and the study of their origins. This course uses lectures, labs, slides, and videos to help the students gain an understanding of the geology around them. Successful completion of this course will enable the student to better appreciate the landforms of the earth. Lab work and one field trip are required. A transportation fee is required for the field trip and three (3) lecture hours per week.

Course Objectives:

The student, at the end of this course will:
1. Explain and apply major concepts in the physical sciences.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the process of science.
3. Communicate scientific ideas through oral or written assignments.
4. Understand the major internal and external processes acting upon the earth.
5. Identify and describe various landforms created by those processes
6. Identify and describe the earth materials.
7. Apply the principles of geologic time to analyze the rates of geologic processes
8. Integrate information learned in class studies to evaluate geologic processes in the field.

Because we live in an ideal area to study geology, many of the processes and materials will be observed as we learn about the geology of southern Utah. Perhaps most importantly, you will come to realize that the earth is a dynamic planet and is undergoing constant change due to the many internal and external geologic processes.

Required Materials
Essentials of Geology by Lutgens and Tarbuck, Ninth edition.