Course Description

Designed for the student who does not intend to major in a physical science. Subject matter deals with features of the planet Earth, astronomy, and weather. The laboratory portion includes a practical study of rocks and minerals as well as a study of topographic, geologic and weather maps. Field trips investigate landforms in the Grand Traverse area. Group 1 lab course.

Credit Hours

4

Contact Hours

5

Lecture Hours

3

Required Prerequisites

MTH 08 or equivalent

Corequisites

ENV 103L

Recommended Prerequisites or Skills Competencies

ENG 111

General Education Outcomes supported by this course

Quantitative Reasoning

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge:

• Describe the origin and classification of earth materials.
• Explain geological processes, past and present, which are responsible for Earth's landscape.
• Identify atmospheric process responsible for weather.
• Identify glacial processes and the resulting landforms responsible for Michigan's topography.
• Identify basic rocks and minerals.

Application:

• Interpret USGS topographic maps.
• Interpret aerial photographs/satellite images.
• Calculate sun angles.

Integration:

• Use math skills to comprehend course content emphasizing quantitative reasoning.
• Relate everyday items to the geologic sources of those materials.

Human Dimension:

• Reflect on the formation, distribution and abundance of earth resources.
• Make educated decisions regarding their personal use, or misuse, of our planet's resources.

Caring - Civic Learning:

• Be inspired to care about learning.

Learning How to Learn:

• Utilize scientific literacy skills to research beyond this course.