GS 142 General Science: Geology

Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 3
Credits: 4

Introduces geology using the Annenberg Earth Revealed video series. Studies the Earth as a system.

Prerequisite: Placement into WR 115 (or higher), or completion of WR 090 (or higher) with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Apply critical thinking skills and act in a scientifically responsible manner when interacting with the natural world.
Explain the theory of plate tectonics.
Identify the common rocks and minerals and describe how they form.
Describe the basic concepts of earthquakes and structural geology.
Describe methods used by geologists for interpreting geologic time.
Describe each of the following geomorphic systems: rivers, glaciers, coasts, groundwater, deserts, and landslides.
Summarize the climatic processes affecting glacial ice ages and how humans may be affecting climate.
Explain the importance of the pubic having a knowledge of geologic process and how those processes affect our lives.

Statewide General Education Outcomes:

Gather, comprehend, and communicate scientific and technical information in order to explore ideas, models, and solutions and generate further questions.
Apply scientific and technical modes of inquiry, individually, and collaboratively, to critically evaluate existing or alternative explanations, solve problems, and make evidence-based decisions in an ethical manner.
Assess the strengths and weaknesses of scientific studies and critically examine the influence of scientific and technical knowledge on human society and the environment.

Content Outline
Required text for college credit: Reynolds, Johnson, Morin, Carter; Exploring Geology; any edition

VIDEO LESSONS

Introduction
- Down to Earth
- The Restless Planet
Plate Tectonics - The Unifying Model
- Earth’s Interior
- The Sea Floor
- The Birth of a Theory
- Plate Dynamics
- Mountain Building
- Earth’s Structures
- Earthquakes
Geologic Time and Life
- Geologic Time
- Evolution through Time
The Rock Cycle
- Minerals - The Material of Earth
- Volcanism
- Intrusive Igneous Rocks
- Weathering and Solis
Carving the Landscape
- Running Water 1 - Rivers, Erosion and Deposition
- Running Water 2 - Landform Evolution
- Ground Water
- Wind, Dust, and Deserts
- Glaciers
- Waves, Beaches, and Coasts
Living with Earth
- Living with Earth Part 1 - Human Responses to Destructive Natural Phenomena
- Living with Earth Part 2 - The Impact of Human Activity on Earth