Interpretation is a broad subject that begins with studies of modern sedimentary processes and uses them to interpret ancient sedimentary rocks. This includes the environments in which sediments formed and in which they were deposited and lithified. Stratigraphy is the study of rock layers. Emphasis is placed on current views of cyclic sedimentation and the relationship between tectonics and sedimentation. The course includes three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory a week.
Lecture presents the basic information of sedimentology and stratigraphy.
The student is asked to read related journal articles as a supplement to lecture. Laboratory includes a series of exercises including graphing, map-making, and the construction of stratigraphic sections. However, the major emphasis is on a research project in which each student collects data and produces a scientific report on the results of his or her findings. Students will gain knowledge and skills that can be used for further study in advanced courses, graduate school, and in industry. Assessment is based on a number of lecture exams and laboratory exercises.