Mar 28, 2024  
2021-22 Catalog 
    
2021-22 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)

GEO 130 - Introduction to Pacific Northwest Geology

5 Credits
Gives introductory students an understanding of the geologic history of the Pacific Northwest by including the influence of plate tectonics upon the mountain building and exotic terrains of the area. It includes several one-day (and possibly overnight) field trips to explore the local geology emphasizing the rock units and geologic processes that have contributed to the formation of the Pacific Northwest.

Pre-requisite(s) MATH 081 or higher min. 2.0
Placement Eligibility Math 091 or higher
Course Note Previously GEOL 130.
FeesSC RG

Quarters Typically Offered
Designed to Serve This course is designed both for general transfer students and students that desire an understanding of the natural history of the Pacific Northwest.
Active Date 20210403T10:08:54

Grading System Decimal Grade
Class Limit 20
Contact Hours: Lecture 33 Lab 44
Total Contact Hours 77
Degree Distributions:
AA
  • Science
  • Science Lab

Course Outline
  • The geologic framework of Cordilleran landscapes
  • Columbia and the Rocky Mountains
  • North Cascades
  • Central and Western British Columbia,
  • San Juan Islands
  • Coast Range Province
  • Cascade Range of Oregon and Southern Washington
  • Cascade volcanoes
  • the Blue Mountain Province
  • Southeastern Oregon - a volcanic highland
  • Snake River Country
  • Columbia Plateau
  • the Puget-Willamette lowlands
  • The geologic histories of these diverse regions are correlated to develop and integrated history of the Pacific Northwest through the theme of place tectonics.


Student Learning Outcomes
Describe in written form, the geologic setting of the Pacific Northwest with respect to plate tectonics.

Clearly differentiate between a geologic process and feature.

Identify major landforms of the region and explain a geologically reasonable process for their formation.

Create a reasonable set of hypotheses based on the application of geologic fundamentals to explain the formation and geographic distribution of rocks found in the Pacific Northwest.

Solve problems by applying knowledge of fundamental geologic concepts and processes in a field setting.

Record field observations in written and drafted (sketch) format, using relevant and appropriate terminology in a clear and geologically correct manner.

Identify first-order rock types (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) in a field setting.

Clearly differentiate between geologic observations and interpretation.



Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)