The lab includes mineral and rock identification, modeling of Earth structures, interpretation of field sites, and map interpretation. The course is divided into three parts. The first part deals with earth materials and their origins. The second part covers earth s structure and tectonic behavior. The third part deals with the surficial processes of landscape development.
Emphasis is placed on the geology of Guam.
For the general student, the purpose of the course is to nurture an understanding and appreciation of the Earth and its fascinating behavior and to provide experience in the methods of science. For the science major, the course provides background material that will be needed in upper-level courses and future careers. For education majors, the course teaches content that will be useful in their teaching careers, as well as methods for presenting the material to students. Lecture is kept to a minimum. Field trips are conducted during some of the laboratory periods.