University of Dayton
Colorado Field Camp 2004
Course Goals:
Field camp provides students the opportunity to obtain “hands-on” experience in solving
geologic problems. By combining field and classroom studies we hope that you will more
effectively learn to define problems, collect data, and formulate scientific hypotheses. Our
geology field camp has three primary objectives. First, and foremost, students will learn the
basic techniques used to study geology in the field. Second, you will utilize the critical thinking
and problem-solving skills learned in the classroom to examine the data that you collect in the
field. Finally, students will apply their new geological skills to solving a real geological problem
– unraveling the geological history and development of the front range of the Rocky Mountains
in Colorado. Using careful observations and information from group discussions, each student
will cap off the field experience by writing a paper delineating the geological history of the area.
Grading (subject to change):
A) Igneous/Metamorphic Geology
Outcrop descriptions in Field Notebooks
Monolith Dolittle Exercise
Rock Descriptions
Geologic History
Georgetown Map
Igneous/Metamorphic Exam
B) Sedimentary Geology
Outcrop descriptions in Field Notebooks
I-70 Outcrop Map
Paleogeographic Map Exercise
Dillon Cross-Section
Stratigraphic Column and Rock Descriptions
From Red Rocks/Morrison
Sedimentary Rock Exam
50 pts.
50 pts.
50 pts.
50 pts.
100 pts.
100 pts.
50 pts.
100 pts.
50 pts.
50 pts.
100 pts.
100 pts.
C) Mining and Environmental Geology
Outcrop descriptions in Field Notebooks
Mineralization/Mining
Environmental Geology
50 pts.
50 pts.
50 pts.
D) FINAL REPORTS – which will include:
Picture Atlas of Rocks and Structures
Geologic History of the Front Range
200 pts.
300 pts.
TOTAL
1500 pts.
Exercises and preliminary write-ups:
Field exercises and small write-ups will be assigned regularly to help solidify concepts learned in
the field. You may work together in the field (unless otherwise instructed), but finish the
exercises independently. Assignments must be turned in on time. Late assignments will not be
accepted and will be given a zero. Taking field notes is mandatory. Your field notebooks will be
collected and graded after each course section.
Hard and soft rock exams:
These exams will be similar in format to field exercises. All of the work is to be done
individually. No late exam write-ups will be accepted.
Final Paper:
This culminating paper will be based upon your field notes, exercises, and observations. Your
paper will include two main parts. The first will describe the geologic history of the front range
of the Colorado Rocky Mountains-a history that extends from the Precambrian to modern times.
This will include descriptions of field techniques, rock charts, maps, and a written history of the
area we have studied over the course of the field camp. The second part will be a photographic
atlas that illustrates the rocks, structures, and geologic relationships that you observe in the field.
This paper must be turned in on time-no late papers will be accepted unless accompanied by a
note from the dean.
Learning Disabilities:
Students with learning disabilities should register with the Learning Assistance Center. If you
have special needs please alert the instructors.
Academic Dishonesty:
See the section on academic dishonesty in the University of Dayton Bulletin for complete details
regarding the definition and penalties for cheating and plagiarism. Please reference all material
in your writings (from printed and from internet sources). If you need guidance with
referencing, please let me know. Papers guilty of plagiarism and cheating will be given zeros.