Laboratory includes mineral and rock identification and map interpretation. Plate tectonics is used to integrate crustal and organic evolution in the dynamic global system. Laboratory stresses interpretation of the rock and fossil records, geologic maps, and plate tectonics' influence on the environment. Concepts of physical geology are applied to human interactions with the environment. Lab includes mineral and rock identification, map interpretation, and environmental problem solving.
Lab includes weather observations and weather map interpretation.
The concepts, which include motion, energy, matter, rocks and minerals, earth history, evolution and natural selection, sound and light waves, are taken from the state science objectives and current environmental issues. Team presentations and hand-on activities are used throughout the semester to develop knowledge and skills useful in teaching science, especially at the elementary level. Topics include the scientific method, matter, energy, ecosystems, the water cycle, weather and climate, with an emphasis on earth systems and current environmental problems. Students will work in teams to research and present information. Demonstrations and hands-on activities complement the lecture topics.