The course offers an overview of plate tectonics, volcanism, earthquakes, mountain building, weathering, erosion, soil, origin of minerals and rocks, water, and energy resources. A field trip is optional. Understand the origin of the Earth. Recognize and apply scientific inquiry in a variety of geological settings. Students develop their reading comprehension skills by reading the textbook and handout materials.
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 homework assignments, tests, and quizzes. Students develop their speaking skills through class discussions, by asking questions in class as well as interactions with their peer in and out 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. The study of earth materials has and will have major impact on the global economic structure of our planet.