GEOL 1010 - Physical Geology

Academic Division:

Liberal Arts

Academic Discipline:

Geology

Assistant Dean: Steve Haynes PhD

4 Credit(s)
Physical Geology is an introductory course describing the fundamental concepts of Geology for Non-Science majors. These fundamental concepts are grouped in 7 modules: Module I (Geology, Earth Science, and the Scientific Method) is an introduction to the science of Geology and its many branches; this module also discusses the steps in the scientific method, and describes the systems approach to geology. Module II (Origin and Evolution of Earth) discusses the formation of the universe and the solar system, and introduces Earth’s neighbors in the solar system. Module III (Plate Tectonics and the Dynamic Earth) discusses Earth’s internal structure and introduces the theory of plate tectonics, a unifying idea that explains Earth’s surface processes and features. Module IV (Earth Materials: Minerals and Rocks) discusses the materials from which Earth is made, as well as their structure and classification. Module V (Structural Geology) describes how Earth’s internal and external processes interact to produce earthquakes and mountains. Module VI (Energy Resources) describes the energy resources that the Earth provides us and how they are produced and used. Module VII (Hydrology and Stream Geomorphology) discusses how water shapes the surface of our planet and helps create a multitude of erosional and depositional landforms. TAG# OSC025 UG OSC025

2 Lab Hour(s)

3 Lecture Hour(s);

College Wide Outcomes

College-Wide Learning Outcomes	Assessments - - How it is met & When it is met
Communication – Written
Communication – Speech
Intercultural Knowledge and Competence
Critical Thinking
Information Literacy
Quantitative Literacy

Student Learning Outcomes for Course

Outcomes	Assessments – How it is met & When it is met
1. Describe several of the many branches of geology and the multiple roles of geoscientists in society; explain how scientists use the scientific method; demonstrate the systems approach to geology and identify the major subsystems of the Earth system; explain how these subsystems interact through cycles (hydrologic cycle, rock cycle, tectonic cycle, and biogeochemical cycles).	Reading quiz 1 and video quiz 1; this outcome will be met at end of week 1 (it will also be assessed on the mid-term and final exams).
2. Recognize how our understanding of the Universe has changed over time, from ancient Greece to modern discoveries, and what ideas were proposed to determine our place in the Universe; describe the theories that explain the formation of the Universe, the Solar System, and planet Earth; identify objects of the Solar System (Sun, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, meteoroids), and the differences between terrestrial and Jovian planets.	Reading quiz 2, video quiz 2, and laboratory exercise 1; this outcome will be met at end of week 2 (it will also be assessed on the mid-term and final exams).
3. Describe the Earth layering process; identify the differences (in composition and physical state) between the layers of our planet (crust, mantle, and core); identify the source of Earth’s magnetic field; recognize Wegener’s contribution to the plate tectonics theory and describe the key evidence supporting the continental drift idea.	Reading quiz 3, video quiz 3, and laboratory exercise 2; this outcome will be met at end of week 3 (it will also be assessed on the mid-term and final exams).
4. Explain how paleomagnetism provided the definitive evidence for continental drift; describe the process of seafloor spreading; demonstrate how the ideas of continental drift and seafloor spreading combined to form the basis for the plate tectonics theory; identify the different types of plate movements and plate boundaries.	Reading quiz 4, video quiz 4, and laboratory exercise 3; this outcome will be met at end of week 4 (it will also be assessed on the mid-term and final exams).

Standard Grading Scale
93-100 A

90 - 92 A-

87- 89 B+

83 - 86 B

80 -82 B-

77- 79 C+

73 - 76 C

70 -72 C-

67- 69 D+

63 - 66 D

60 -62 D-

00- 59 F

Statement on Diversity
North Central State College believes that every student is a valued and equal member of the community.* Every student brings different experiences to the College, and all are important in enriching academic life and developing greater understanding and appreciation of one another. Therefore, NC State College creates an inclusive culture in which students feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Discrimination and prejudice have no place on the campus, and the College takes any complaint in this regard seriously. Students encountering aspects of the instruction that result in barriers to their sense of being included and respected should contact the instructor, assistant dean, or dean without fear of reprisal.

*Inclusive of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin (ancestry), military status (past, present or future), disability, age (40 years or older), status as a parent during pregnancy and immediately after the birth of a child, status as a parent of a young child, status as a foster parent, genetic information, or sexual orientation,

Standard NCSC Course Policies
Important information regarding College Procedures and Policies can be found on the syllabus supplement located at this link