Field trip to selected localities of geologic interest. A study of the production, transportation, deposition and lithification of sediments. To include comparison of classifications, techniques of using sediments in environmental interpretations and laboratory techniques in sediment study. Two lectures and one two-hour laboratory. A general study of fossils including classification of plants and animals, development and evolution of prehistoric life, paleontological techniques and use of fossils as time and ecological guides.
Lab includes study and identification of the major fossil groups.
Emphasis is on invertebrate animals, with a general review also of microfossils, plants, and vertebrates. Three lectures and two two-hour laboratories. Consideration will be given to sample preparation, American Society Testing Materials data file, laboratory procedures, and analysis of data. Seminar and studies of advanced topics in selected fields in geology and other earth sciences. Two hours per week in lecture, seminar or lab appropriate to the topics.