GEO 102 - Introduction to Earth Science

5 Credits

This course introduces the science of the Earth, its materials and how they form and the processes that shape our planet inside and out! Topics include plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes, minerals and rocks, the water cycle, rivers, waves, glaciers, and landslides!

Pre-requisite(s) Math 081 or higher min 2.0
Placement Eligibility Math 91 or higher
Instructor Permission Required Yes
FeesGeology Fee Science Lab Support Fee

Quarters Typically Offered
Spring Online, Weekend

Designed to Serve This course is for students in the IBEST Program.
Active Date 20240322T08:52:30

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 24
Contact Hours: Lecture 44 Lab 22
Total Contact Hours 66
Degree Distributions:
AA

Natural Science
Science Lab

Course Outline

Scientific Method
The Interior Structure of the Earth
Plate Tectonics
Mineral Identification
The Rock Cycle
Weathering and Erosion
Rivers, Waves, Wind, Glaciers and Gravity
Volcanoes and Volcanism
Faulting and Earthquakes
Geologic Time

Student Learning Outcomes
Distinguish between observations, data, and interpretations and summarize the important components of the scientific method.

Apply the scientific method, make relevant calculations, and use appropriate detail and terminology in completing assignments.

Identify commonly occurring minerals by making observations and testing their physical properties.

Distinguish between igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks by making observations of their compositions and textures.

Describe geologic processes associated with the rock cycle and plate tectonics in a clear and concise manner.

Students will describe how surface processes (weathering, mass wasting, streams, groundwater, waves/tides, glaciers, wind) function and relate them to the surface features in the landscape.

Articulate the importance of plate tectonics to earth processes such as rock deformation, earthquakes, volcanoes, and other geologic events.

Communicate in verbal, written, or graphical formats the impacts of geology on everyday life.

Articulate testable hypotheses, collect relevant data, and determine if a hypothesis is falsified.

Use quantitative skills to read complex graphics, create simple x-y plots of data, and use quantitative information to describe, interpret, and effectively synthesize scientific investigations.