Maui Community College Course Outline 1. Alpha and Number GG 101 Course Title Introduction to Geology Credits Four ( 4 ) Date of Outline February 27, 2004 (D. Grooms) 2. Course Description Presents principles of physical geology including the composition and structure of the earth, its evolution over geologic time, and processes shaping the earth’s crust including continental drift, volcanism, earthquakes, and erosion. Field trips. 3. Contact Hours/Type Three (3) hours/Lecture Three (3) hours/Lab 4. Prerequisites ENG 22 or 55 with at least C or placement at ENG 100, and placement of at least MATH 20/22, or consent. Corequisites Recommended Preparation Approved by Date 2 5. General Course Objectives Focuses on the major interior and exterior features of the planet Earth and how these features respond to sources of energy, how human activities affect the earth and how geology can be applied to the search for new supplies of natural resources. Includes how geological features record the passage of time and how the methods of science are applied to the study of the earth. For detailed information on how GG 101 focuses on the Maui Community College general education standards, see the attached curricular grids. GG 101 fulfills four of the 10 credits for the Natural Science requirement for A.A., A.S, and A.A.S. degrees at Maui Community College. This course fulfills the requirements for the University of Hawaii at Manoa General Education Diversification, Natural Science, Physical Sciences (D/P) and the laboratory science credit (D/Y) 6. Student Learning Outcomes For assessment purposes, these are linked to # 7. Recommended Course Content Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to: Lecture a. explain the general physical and biological aspects of planet earth; b. demonstrate a working knowledge of basic atomic structure and mineral formation leading to the formation of liquid magma and igneous rocks; c. explain the rock cycle and learn methods to identify and classify igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks; d. describe the classification of volcanic eruption types and the igneous rocks associated with each type; e. explain the weathering process and how it relates to the formation of sedimentary rocks and depositional systems; f. discuss geologic time, basic stratigraphic principles, and explain clearly the major geological time divisions that have been important in the formation of the earth; g. explain what causes earthquakes and tsunamis, and how to locate an earthquake’s focus and epicenter. Explain the hazards of earthquakes and tsunamis to man and assess man’s prediction capabilities for these disasters; h. diagram the interior structure of the earth; i. explain the theory of plate tectonics and how it relates to the formation of the earth and the Hawaiian Islands; j. discuss the effects mass movement, wind, and the work of water (streams and oceans) in shaping the face of the earth; k. define the hydrologic cycle and explain the processes of groundwater formation, especially its importance to the people of Hawaii; l. explain the characteristics of a glacier and how it operates; m. assess and discuss the effects of man’s contributions to the saving or destruction of the planet. Laboratory n. describe the process of crystal growth and identify physical properties, names and classifications of the common rock forming minerals; o. apply the technique of mineral identification to classify and name common igneous rocks found in various geological settings throughout the world; p. examine, classify, and name common sedimentary rocks based on their mineral content, grain size, and textures; q. describe various sedimentary rock structures and textures, and determine the rock’s origin and environment of deposition; r. classify and name metamorphic rocks and related ore bodies; s. compare and contrast faults, folds, and unconformities found within sedimentary strata, and reconstruct the local geologic history of an area; 3 t. explain contours and construct topographic maps from raw data and/or aerial photos. Identify important geologic features and environments; u. use aerial and stereo photographs to identify various landforms on the earth’s surface; v. construct and interpret geologic maps and cross sections. Identify and describe important geological features and how these features impact the earth and its environment; w. identify key geological features from photographs and maps of other plants and satellites in our solar system; x. differentiate between seismograms, seismographs, and seismic waves. Demonstrate how to use the data they provide to locate earthquakes; y. identify and explain geologic features in a field environment. 7. Recommended Course Content and Approximate Time Spent on Each Topic Linked to # 6. Student Learning Outcomes 1-2 Weeks: Lecture Overview of Planet Earth (a,b Lab Introduction to Minerals (n, o) f, h, i, m) 1-2 Weeks: Atoms and Minerals (b, c) Mineral Properties and Identification (n, o) 1-2 Weeks: Volcanoes and Igneous Rocks (c, d) Igneous Rocks and Volcanic Landforms (o) 1-2 Weeks Weathering and Sedimentary Rocks (c, e) Sedimentary Rocks (p, q) 1-2 Weeks Metamorphic Rocks (b, c, h) Metamorphic Rocks (r) 1-2 Weeks Work of the Wind and Water (j) Topographic Mapping (t) 1-2 Weeks Ground Water and Glaciers (k, l) Topographic Mapping and Aerial Photos (t-w) 1-2 Weeks Deformation, Geological Structures, and Geologic Time (f-i) Faults, Folds, Reconstructing Geologic History(s-w) 1-2 Weeks Earth’s Interior (a, g-i) Earthquakes and Tsunamis (x) 1-2 Weeks Plate Tectonics and Geologic Time (f, i) Plate Tectonics and Geologic Time (s-x) 1-2 Weeks Human Use of the Earth's Resources (m) Geologic hazards, Natural Resources and Environmental Alterations (s, v) 1-2 Weeks Special Topics (a-y) Special Topics and Field trips (a-y) 4 8. Text and Materials, Reference Materials, Auxiliary Materials and Content An appropriate text(s) and materials will be chosen at the time the course is to be offered from those currently available in the field. Examples include: Texts: Plummer, C. et. al. 2005. Physical Geology and accompanying lab manual. McGraw-Hill, San Francisco, CA. Materials: Text(s) may be supplemented with: Articles and/or handouts prepared by the instructor Magazine or newspaper articles Other: Appropriate laboratory materials Appropriate films, videos or Internet sites Television programs Guest Speakers Other instructional aids 9. Recommend Course Requirements and Evaluation Specific course requirements are at the discretion of the instructor at the time the course is being offered. Suggested requirements might include, but are not limited to: 40 – 80% 10 – 30% 0 – 30% 30 – 50% 0 – 20% 20 – 40% 0 – 20% 10. Examinations (written and/or oral) In-class exercises Homework Laboratory work Quizzes Projects/Research Papers/Field Trips Attendance and/or class participation Methods of Instruction Instructional methods vary considerable with instructors and specific instructional methods will be at the discretion of the instructor teaching the course. Suggested techniques might include, but are not limited to a. b. c. d. e. f. g. quizzes and other tests with feedback and discussion; field and lab practical exams; lectures and class discussions; problem solving; narrated 35-mm slide and/or PowerPoint presentations; videos, DVDs, CD-ROMs with detailed viewing guide and discussion questions; lab activities including experiments, lab skill lessons, data analysis, and other activities; h. field trips including field notes, activities, observations, and data collection; i. guest speakers and attendance at public lectures; j. group activities; k. oral reports and other student presentations; l. games and simulations; m. homework assignments such as 5 n. o. p. q. r. s. - reading, or watching, and writing summaries and reactions to environmental issues in the media including broadcast television, newspapers, video, magazines, journals, lectures, web-based material, and other sources; - mapping various environmental features; - reading text and reference materials and answering discussion questions; - researching environmental issues and problems; web-based assignments and activities; reflective journals; group and/ or individual research projects with reports or poster presentations; study logs and study groups; Service-Learning, community service, and/or civic engagement projects; and other contemporary learning techniques (such as problem-based learning, investigative case-based learning, co-op, internships, self-paced programs, etc.) 6 Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes - Geology and Geophysics 2004 Standard 1: Written Communication GG 101 GG 103 1.1 Use writing to discover and articulate ideas 2 2 1.2 Identify and analyze the audience and purpose for 1 1 any intended communication 1.3 Choose language, style and organization appropriate 2 2 to particular purposes and audiences 1.4 Gather information and document sources 2 2 appropriately 1.5 Express a main idea as a thesis, hypothesis, and 0 0 other appropriate content 1.6 Develop a main idea clearly and concisely with 2 2 appropriate content 1.7 Demonstrate mastery of the conventions of writing, 1 1 including grammar, spelling, and mechanics 1.8 Demonstrate proficiency in revision and editing 0 0 1.9 Develop a personal voice in written 0 0 communication Key: 3. Major Emphasis:: The student is actively involved (uses, reinforces, applies, and evaluated) in the Student Learning Outcomes. The learner outcome is the focus of the class. 2. Moderate Emphasis: The student uses, reinforces, applies and is evaluated by this learner outcome, but it is not the focus of the class 1. Minor Emphasis: The student is provided an opportunity to use, reinforce, and apply this learner outcome but does not get evaluated on this learner outcome 0. No Emphasis: The student does not address this learner outcome 7 Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes - Geology and Geophysics 2004 Standard 2: Quantitative Reasoning 2.1 Apply numeric, graphic and symbolic skills and other forms of quantitative reasoning, accurately and appropriately 2.2 Demonstrate mastery of mathematical concepts, skills, and applications, using technology when appropriate 2.3 Communicate clearly and concisely the methods and results of quantitative problem solving 2.4 Formulate and test hypotheses using numerical experimentation 2.5 Define quantitative issues and problems, gather relevant information, analyze that information, and present results 2.6 Assess the validity of statistical conclusions GG 101 GG 103 2 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Key: 3. Major Emphasis: The student is actively involved (uses, reinforces, applies, and evaluated) in the Student Learning Outcomes. The learner outcome is the focus of the class. 2. Moderate Emphasis: The student uses, reinforces, applies and is evaluated by this learner outcome, but it is not the focus of the class 1. Minor Emphasis: The student is provided an opportunity to use, reinforce, and apply this learner outcome but does not get evaluated on this learner outcome 0. No Emphasis: The student does not address this learner outcome 8 Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes - Geology and Geophysics 2004 Standard 3: Information Retrieval and Technology GG 101 GG 103 3.1 Use print and electronic information technology 1 1 ethically and responsibly 3.2 Demonstrate knowledge of basic vocabulary, concepts, and operations of 1 0 information technology and retrieval 3.3 Recognize, identify, and define an information need 1 1 3.4 Access and retrieve information through print and electronic media, evaluating 1 1 the accuracy and authenticity of that information 3.5 Create, manage, organize, and communicate 0 0 information through electronic media 3.6 Recognize changing technologies and make 0 0 informed choices about their appropriateness and use Key: 3. Major Emphasis:: The student is actively involved (uses, reinforces, applies, and evaluated) in the Student Learning Outcomes. The learner outcome is the focus of the class. 2. Moderate Emphasis: The student uses, reinforces, applies and is evaluated by this learner outcome, but it is not the focus of the class 1. Minor Emphasis: The student is provided an opportunity to use, reinforce, and apply this learner outcome but does not get evaluated on this learner outcome 0. No Emphasis: The student does not address this learner outcome 9 Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes - Geology and Geophysics 2004 Standard 4: Oral Communication GG 101 GG 103 4.1 Identify and analyze the audience and purpose of 0 0 any intended communication. 4.2 Gather, evaluate, select, and organize information for 0 0 the communication. 4.3 Use language, techniques, and strategies 1 1 appropriate to the audience and occasion. 4.4 Speak clearly and confidently, using the voice, volume, tone, and 1 1 articulation appropriate to the audience and occasion 4.5 Summarize, analyze, and evaluate oral communications and ask 0 0 coherent questions as needed. 4.6 Use competent oral expression to initiate and 1 1 sustain discussion. Key: 3. Major Emphasis:: The student is actively involved (uses, reinforces, applies, and evaluated) in the Student Learning Outcomes. The learner outcome is the focus of the class. 2. Moderate Emphasis: The student uses, reinforces, applies and is evaluated by this learner outcome, but it is not the focus of the class 1. Minor Emphasis: The student is provided an opportunity to use, reinforce, and apply this learner outcome but does not get evaluated on this learner outcome 0. No Emphasis: The student does not address this learner outcome 10 Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes - Geology and Geophysics 2004 Standard 5: Critical Thinking GG 101 GG 103 5.1 Identify and state problems, issues, arguments, and questions 3 3 contained in a body of information. 5.2 Identify and analyze assumptions and underlying 3 3 points of view relating to an issue or problem. 5.3 Formulate research questions that require 0 0 descriptive and explanatory analyses. 5.4 Recognize and understand multiple modes of inquiry, including 3 3 investigative methods based on observation and analysis. 5.5 Evaluate a problem, distinguishing between relevant and irrelevant facts, opinions, assumptions, 2 2 issues, values, and biases through the use of appropriate evidence. 5.6 Apply problem-solving techniques and skills, 3 3 including the rules of logic and logical sequence. Key: 3. Major Emphasis:: The student is actively involved (uses, reinforces, applies, and evaluated) in the Student Learning Outcomes. The learner outcome is the focus of the class. 2. Moderate Emphasis: The student uses, reinforces, applies and is evaluated by this learner outcome, but it is not the focus of the class 1. Minor Emphasis: The student is provided an opportunity to use, reinforce, and apply this learner outcome but does not get evaluated on this learner outcome 0. No Emphasis: The student does not address this learner outcome