The laboratory provides practical experience in studying sedimentary rocks to interpret depositional processes and environments, examination of fossils and their use in age determinations, correlation of rock units, radiometric dating, evolution, interpreting geologic history from maps, and the regional geology of North America. Three hours of laboratory per week are scheduled. Recognize and apply the methods of scientific problem-solving and critical thinking. Identify Rocks and Minerals and observe the effect of weathering on these materials. Identify Sedimentary Rocks, Sedimentary Structures, and interpret the Depositional environment for each of these.
Students develop their listening skills through lecture and group problem solving.
Lecture material is presented that is not included in the textbook or handout material and is included as part of the exams or tests. Students develop their writing skills through a variety of laboratory assignments, tests, and quizzes. Students develop their speaking skills through class discussions, by asking questions in class as well as interactions with their peers in and outside of class. Students will develop the skills of inquiry by use of the scientific method to experience, evaluate, and synthesize data as applied to various geological problems in identifying Sedimentary Rocks, Sedimentary Structures, and fossils as well as interpreting topographic and geologic maps. This course addresses the general education outcomes of developing effective individual and at times group problem-solving and critical thinking skills as applied to geology.