Chabot College
January 1994
Removed Fall 2010
Course Outline for Geology 10
INTRODUCTION TO GEOLOGY
Catalog Description:
10 - Introduction to Geology
3 units
Earthquakes, volcanism, and plate tectonics as shapers of the earth's surface. Formation and use of
energy and material resources. Origin and history of prehistoric life. May not be taken for credit if
Geology 1A or 1B have been completed. 3 hours.
[Typical contact hours: 52.5]
Expected Outcomes for Students:
Upon completion of the course, the student should be able to:
1.
describe the earth's inner structure and explain the nature of our observations thereon;
2.
describe our current concept of the earth's origin and age;
3.
describe major rock types, their origins, compositions, and classifications;
4.
describe the operation and propagation of earthquake waves;
5.
describe current understanding of plate tectonics, sea floor spreading, continental drift, and
polarity reversals;
6.
describe major features of sea floor structures;
7.
describe processes of weathering and erosion of the earth's crust and identify the agents for
their operations;
8.
describe current consensus on the origin of life and its early history on earth;
9.
recognize four or five fossil specimens and identify them appropriately by phylum, class, or
family;
10.
reproduce the geological time scale as to eras and periods;
11.
describe the basis of radiometric time measurement;
12.
describe the nature of current considerations on the use and future of our natural resources.
Course Content:
1.
Earth's interior
2.
Age of the earth
3.
Plate tectonics
4.
Earthquakes and volcanism
5.
Weathering and erosion: glaciers, rivers, ground water, shorelines
6.
Mass movement and the effects of wind
7.
Energy and mineral resources
8.
Origin of life on earth
9.
Evolution and life through geologic time
Methods of Presentation:
1.
Lecture and discussion
2.
Media presentations
3.
Demonstrations
4.
Videos
Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:
1.
Quizzes
2.
Midterm examinations
3.
Final examination
Textbook(s) (Typical):
Essentials of Geology, Lutgens and Tarbuck, McMillan Publishers
Special Student Material:
DP/hp 2/94
a:Geology:Geo10CO.CON
None