Course Syllabus

GEO 1015 Survey of Geology Lab

Course Description

The Survey of Geology lab component allows for student application of the principles learned in Survey of Geology lecture. It also teaches students skills necessary to apply these principles. There is an emphasis on investigative learning. In this course students will learn how to identify and interpret common minerals, rocks, and fossils. In addition, students will learn to read and interpret topographic and geologic maps, aerial and satellite photos, and interpret landforms, geologic history, and resources on these maps and photos.

Justification

The Survey of Geology Lab (GEO 1015) satisfies the science laboratory GE requirement at Snow College. For the natural sciences, science is the systematic inquiry into natural phenomena organizing and condensing those observations into testable models and hypotheses, theories or laws. The success and credibility of science is anchored in the willingness of scientists to: 1) expose their ideas and results to independent testing and replication by other scientists which requires the complete and open exchange of data, procedures, and materials; 2) abandon or modify accepted conclusions when confronted with more complete or reliable experimental evidence. Adherence to these principles provides a mechanism for self-correction that is the foundation of the credibility of science. (Adapted from a statement by the Panel on Public Affairs of the American Physical Society which was endorsed by the Executive Board of the American Association of Physics Teachers in 1999.) This lab is an integral part of an introductory geology experience. It is offered to introduce introductory geology students to the basic skills of a geologist: mineral and rock identification, fossil identification, map-reading skills, interpreting landforms and geologic history. Together with GEO 1010 this class meets the Physical Science requirement for G.E. at Snow College and is a common course number for other public colleges in Utah. Snow College is unique in that a lab is required of students, not optional. The lab and lecture are integrated completely. The lab focuses on skills and applications of concepts covered in lecture.

General Education Outcomes

1. A student who completes the GE curriculum has a fundamental knowledge of human cultures and the natural world. The primary purpose of this course is to teach students the skills that geologists use to interpret the natural world such as mineral and rock identification, fossil identification, map, and aerial photo interpretation. The secondary purpose of this class is to provide a strong conceptual understanding of how geologists see and interpret the natural world such as landforms, potential geologic hazards and earth history from geologic and topographic maps. Feedback is provided in graded labs and exams.
2. A student who completes the GE curriculum can read and research effectively within disciplines. This general education outcome is covered in the co-requisite class GEO 1010.
3. A student who completes the GE curriculum can draw from multiple disciplines to address complex problems. This general education outcome is covered in the co-requisite class GEO 1010.
4. A student who completes the GE curriculum can reason analytically, critically, and creatively. Students are required to take measurements, make calculations ,interpret maps, photos, and satellite data and images. The student's ability to reason analytically and critically is measured by graded lab exercises and, lab practical exams.
   
   
   

General Education Knowledge Area Outcomes

1. Students will use the scientific method to observe and interpret geologic materials, processes, and landscapes using skills learned in this lab.
    Students will use the scientific method to observe and interpret geologic materials, processes, and landscapes using skills learned in this lab.
   

Course Content

During this course the following topics will be addressed using hands-on laboratory exercises
• Mineral Identification
• Igneous Rock Identification and Interpretation
• Sedimentary Rock Identification and Interpretation
• Metamorphic Rock Identification and Interpretation
• Topographic Map Interpretation
• Fluvial Landforms
• Geologic Map Interpretation
• Fossil Identification and interpretation
• Evolution
• Earth History-dating and interpretation of past events
• Groundwater Modeling
• Geologic Hazards (earthquakes, mass wasting, flooding) – interpretation and prediction
These topics will invite students to connect the science of geology to their lives and the lives of others. Landscapes will be explored as a means of identity. Unique student perspectives on these topics will be discussed.