SYLLABUS
Geology 101 – Exploring Planet Earth
Great Basin College – Fall 2011
4 Credits – General Education Science
Instructor Information
Dennis Thomas - home phone 623-9543. You are welcome to call me at home
between 4:30 and 9:00 P. M. You may also call my cell phone 421-8659, if I don’t
answer, leave a message. My email address is dennist@gwmail.gbcnv.edu.
You may also contact me via the school FAX at 623-1812 or by placing
messages in my school mailbox (#24). I do not have scheduled office hours,
however you may arrange to meet with me after scheduled classes.
Textbook
Physical Geology, Twelfth Edition, by C. C. Plummer, D. McGeary, and D. H.
Carlson, 2006, McGraw Hill Companies, Inc, ISBN-13: 987-0-09-326285-7.
Laboratory Manual for Physical Geology, Fourteenth Edition, by James H.
Zumberge, Robert H. Rutford, and James L. Carter, 2007, McGraw Hill
Companies, Inc., ISBN 0-07-298861-4
Suggested book (not required) Simon and Schusters’s Guide to Rocks and
Minerals, by A. Mottana, R. Crespi, and G. Liborio, edited by M. Prinz, G. Harlow,
and J. Peters, 1978, Simon and Schuster, Inc., ISBN 0-671-24417-5
General Information
Geology 101 meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 4 P.M. to 6:45 P. M. in the
Science Lab (Room WC122) of Great Basin College, Winnemucca Branch
Campus. Each week, I will present material from two chapters. On Thursdays,
we will work on lab assignments. This class satisfies four credits of science
course work in General Education as defined in the current catalog. It will also
satisfy four credits of science with lab defined in earlier catalogs.
Course Description and Objectives
This course will provide an introduction to geology, the study of Earth processes,
within the framework of the scientific method. Throughout this course, we will
learn how and why Earth’s surface and interior are constantly changing and how
the interaction of air, water, and solid material creates the mountains, rivers and
oceans. Understanding the ‘big picture’ will help your understanding of every
concept in this course.
There will be lectures, laboratory exploration and a field trip that will provide an
opportunity you develop a good basic understanding of physical geology. You
will write a term paper, give an oral presentation to the class, answer questions
asked in class, participate in small lab workgroups and discussion groups. These
exercises are intended to enhance you ability to communicate clearly and
effectively. The labs will provide you with hands-on opportunities to learn the
scientific principles of geologic investigation, basic geologic concepts, and
enhance your ability to think critically. You will learn how to read topographic and
geologic maps, identify common rocks and minerals, recognize fossil types, and
calculate simple Earth movement solutions.
Measurements of Expected Course Outcomes (objectives)
The above objectives will be measured by:
1. Your development of a general appreciation of the geologic framework of
Earth will be determined from tests, participation and discussion.
Comprehension of the fundamental concepts of geology will be
determined by tests, laboratory exercises and participation in class
discussions.
2. Recognize how the study of geology contributes to the supplying the
things we need, protecting the environment, and avoiding geologic
hazards will be tested by exams and participation in discussions and from
written assignments intended to enhance personal/cultural awareness of
the role of geology in society.
3. Examine your understanding of the scientific method in problem solving
and critical thinking, and recognizing the hierarchy of scientific knowledge
it creates will be established though lab exercises and reports.
4. Communication skills will be evaluated by your oral presentation of
research conducted primarily through Internet investigation.
Student Responsibilities
You must participate in classes if you intend to obtain the full benefits of
instruction. You may be dropped from the class if your absences become
excessive. More than 4 absences without legitimate excuses is considered
excessive in a four-credit course.
You are expected to read the material before coming to class. I will ask
questions throughout each lecture to keep track of how well you are grasping the
material and will expect your participation.
Take written notes and be sure to ask questions. If you do not understand, it is
likely your classmates don’t either.
Assignments must be on time to get full credit for your work. Points will be
deducted for late work. I will reduce your earned grade by 10% for each day the
assignment is late. Your work will not be accepted after the work of other
students has been returned to them.
If you know you cannot take an exam during the scheduled time, you must make
arrangements to take the test at another time before the test is scheduled.
Should you miss an exam because of an emergency, you may make it up so long
as you provide appropriate written documentation of the emergency.
Withdrawing from the Course
Great Basin College allows you to withdraw from a class before the end of the
thirteenth week of the semester and receive a W on your grade report and
transcript. This date is November 25, 2010. You must do this if you plan to drop
the class. If you do not formally withdraw, I will give you a letter grade based on
the points you achieved in class.
Students may request ‘incomplete’ status if they are unable to complete the class
on time, but want an opportunity to finish. You must be passing when you have
completed 75% of the coursework. Incomplete status is granted for compelling
cause, usually family emergencies, medical emergencies or employment
emergencies, although other reasons will be considered. Please request
incomplete status from me in writing by December 1. The request must include a
statement of the work that must be completed for a final grade and the reason for
your request. Your outstanding coursework must be submitted by March 15,
2012, or your grade will automatically revert to a W.
Grade values are as follows:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
I
W
Superior
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Failure
Incomplete
Withdrawal
4.0
3.7
3.3
3.0
2.7
2.3
2.0
1.7
1.3
1.0
0.7
0.0
Course Assignments and Points Possible
There are 1,000 points possible in this course. The points you earn from the
exams, lab assignments, class participation, and reports will determine your
grade. The points are distributed as follows:
Midterm Exam 1
Midterm Exam 2
Midterm Exam 3
Final Exam
100 points
100 points
100 points
200 points
Lab Assignments (9)
Lab Exam
Field Trip Report
160 points
75 points
65 points
Term Project
200 total points
Conference with instructor
10 points
Reference list
10 points
Rough Draft
30 points
Final Paper
100 points
(Content 75 pts., references and citations 10 pts., organization 5
pts., grammar and spelling 10 pts.)
Oral Presentation
50 points
The highest score attained in the class will be considered 100% of the points
possible. Each 10% below that high score will mark the cutoff for the A-B-C-D-F
grades.
Exams
The three midterm exams and the final will be taken in class, or as a take-home
at the discretion of the instructor. There will not be any new material presented
on exam day. The exams may include essay responses, multiple choice
questions, true-false responses, drawing or labeling diagrams or charts, fill in the
blank, matching, or defining terms. These exams will test your understanding of
the assigned reading in the test. On each exam points will be added to the
highest score to make it total 100%. The same amount of points will also be
added to the rest of the scores.
Labs
Assignments will consist of classroom work, fieldwork and observations.
We will learn mineral and rock identification, geologic dating and history, learn to
read many types of maps, explore geologic structures, take a field trip, and
investigate ore deposits and mining. Each classroom lab will have a 20-point
assignment that you may be able to complete on the lab night; however, you may
work on it when the science lab is open, and turn it in to me at the beginning of
the next lab night. There are nine lab assignments, and your lowest lab
assignment score will not be used to calculate your grade. A comprehensive test
of the material presented during labs will be conducted at the end of the course.
There will be a field trip on Saturday, October 22. At the discretion of the
instructor, some short field trips may be taken during class time. The required
typewritten report on the trip should include observations of the field trip stops.
Include information about what we discussed, where we went, and how the
weather was. Be as detailed as possible. I encourage the use of drawings or
photographs to illustrate important aspects of the trip. The report will be worth 65
points and will be graded on completeness of the information, and writing quality
(spelling, grammar, organization). It will be due November 3, regardless if you
accompanied the class or you are self-guided.
Research Paper
A typewritten research paper will be required for this class. You may consider
most any aspect of physical geology for your research subject, however I must
approve it. Some suggested topics include:
Earthquakes in Nevada
Geology of a particular mine or National Park
Geologic History of Nevada
Sedimentary rocks in Northern Nevada
Geologic Hazards in Nevada
Volcanic Rocks in Northern Nevada
Groundwater Resources in Nevada
Geothermal Energy in Nevada
Oil Resources in Nevada
Your paper should be at least five but not more than twenty pages (not including
the front matter, references cited and figures). Your research should include a
minimum of three references other than your text. The facts of your research will
be attributed to the source of the information. I prefer the APA style, citing writer
and date in parentheses following the fact or paragraph, or citing the writer in the
text and including the date in parentheses. You may also include photographs,
diagrams or other illustrations but be sure to cite the work of others.
Other requirements for preparation for your paper include:

By September 22, meet with me to discuss your report. This meeting will
establish the topic for your research; make certain that you know what I
expect the report to cover and so I can help you find research material for
the report.

By October 13, turn in a typed reference list (a list of references you may
use in your report). You may expand this list during your research.

No later than November 17, you must turn in a double spaced rough draft
of your paper. This is to determine if you have covered the topic well, and
to identify technical writing problems you should address before turning in
your final paper.

Be prepared to turn in your final paper and present your oral summary of
your research by December 6.
Oral Presentation of Research
You will also be required to present your research orally to the class. Your
presentation should be a summary of the research (reading your paper to the
class will not be acceptable). Your presentation must be between 5 and 30
minutes in length. You are encourages to include visual aides, such as
transparencies, slides, or computer projections. You may also use PowerPoint or
videotapes so long as they are your own work.
Written Assignments
All written assignments shall be in 12-point font, double line spaced, left justified
in dark ink on pale paper. Consult the writing lab if you need information about
writing reports. Tutors are available to provide assistance with technical writing
skills, research approaches and review or proof reading of you papers.
Students with Disabilities
If you are a student with a disability and you require assistance and special
accommodations for classes call the Counseling Office, 775.753.2279.
Substantiation of the incorporation of the General Education Objectives
into Geology 101:
Communication Skills (strong component):
Some test questions are short essay in nature, requiring clear communication of
the understanding of geologic processes. The use of appropriate sketches and
graphs in communicating ideas is promoted. In the lab, written descriptions of the
rocks that students identify are required. Also, two complete lab write-ups on
quantitative investigations (following the format of scientific investigation) are
required. Class discussion is encouraged.
Critical Thinking (strong component):
Quantitative Ability (significant): Several of the labs specifically require
measurement, mathematic manipulation of the data, and the creation of graphs.
Quantitative relationships are used in creation of topographic maps through
interpolation of survey points and in the creation of topographic cross sections.
Students learn latitude and longitude (with an introduction to GPS) and the use of
the Land Office Grid System (section, township, range). Students are introduced
to the use of the Brunton compass, the measurement of planar orientation with
strike and dip, and they learn the three dimensional relationships between
topography and geologic structure. The difference in arrival times of p and s
waves generated from earthquakes is used to determine the location of
earthquakes from seismograph data.
Reasoning and Independent Thought (significant): All lab exercises
require reasoning and independent thought based on the interpretation of both
qualitative and quantitative information. For mineral and rock identification,
observations and simple physical tests must be made to determine the unique
physical properties and compositions. This information is then interpreted to
correctly identify the mineral or rock. There is more reasoning in this exercise
than most students realize. The interpretation of landforms represented on
topographic maps and geologic structures represented on geologic maps both
require reasoning. The written labs require the use of the scientific method
format, where appropriate conclusions must be drawn from the data and
calculated results. Many test questions require reasoning taken from the
understanding and application of the processes of geology, not just the
memorization of terms (though of course, they must know the meanings of the
terms too).
Scientific Understanding (significant): All principles taught in this course
are based on scientific reasoning. All interpretations are given as they are based
upon facts. The lab introduces the use of the scientific method and the use of
both observational and quantifiable facts in its application. The underlying effects
of energy from gravity, stream velocity, internal and solar heat, and other sources
are discussed. The chemical nature of rocks and minerals is shown. The
scientific basis for evolution shown in the fossil record is reviewed, and its
application to the geologic time scale is emphasized. Geologic time and the
position of the earth within time and the universe is reviewed. Students are
taught that every feature of the earth is the result of specific processes that can
be understood and interpreted by those who are knowledgeable of these
processes.
Personal and Cultural Awareness (moderate component):
Sense of the Individual in Society (considerable): This objective is also
reflected under the “Sense of Accountability” objective below. We discuss the
right of the individual to build anywhere one desires versus societies’ willingness
to compensate the individual for losses incurred from natural disasters, especially
when a high likely-hood of the disaster is known (examples: building on flood
plains or barrier islands in hurricane prone areas, etc.). A global view of
geological processes is given that shows that they have no deference to any
race, creed, or cultural factor. Different social attitudes to geologic hazards in
different cultures are reviewed.
Sense of the Past (considerable): This class lives deeper in the past than
most would probably like to accept as the goal of this objective. We show human
history as only a tiny blip on the screen of time. What can be emphasized is the
sharp impact of humans on the surface of the planet in a short period of time, but
we can also show how insignificant we are at the same time. In addition, the
historical basis for the development of important geologic ideas is presented.
Examples include the constancy of interfacial angles of crystals being an early
evidence of atomic structure, the history of the interpretation of ice ages, the role
of geology in the development of evolutionary theory, the development of new
technology advancing the state of knowing (such as using radiometric age
dating), etc. Finally, the development of human societies, arts, and industry are
all intimately related to the utilization of mineral resources through past ages,
thus the terms “Stone”, “Bronze”, “Iron”, and “Atomic” ages. The impact of fossil
fuels on modern society is discussed.
Sense of Accountability (significant): A common theme throughout much
of this course is the interaction between humans and nature, and the personal
and social consequences of these interactions. These interactions range from
geologic hazards (floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, mass wasting, etc.)
through resource utilization (minerals, fossil fuels, ground water utilization, etc.)
through the effects of pollution on natural systems (pollution of ground water,
global temperature change, etc.). The acts of individuals and society through
building and land use planning are discussed, using examples of costs to tax
payers (through government reimbursement after “disasters”) when individuals
build in flood plains, low coastal areas susceptible to hurricanes, earthquakeprone areas, etc. The question of what rights society has to regulate activities in
these kinds of areas is posed.
Appreciation of Fine Arts (some degree): The development of the fine
arts in some areas parallels to development and use of mineral resources, and
this type of information is presented during the course of the class. Examples are
found in the history of pigments and paints (mineral and petroleum based) and
the development of ceramics. Modern sculpture relies on mineral resources.
Greek and Roman Art is shown and discussed.
Personal Wellness (some degree):
Personal safety is considered in the discussion of geologic hazards (first
reactions to earthquakes, safe places to build or buy homes, etc., are examples).
Potential sources of groundwater pollution are shown.
Technological Understanding (moderate component):
Internet links are shown to sites giving current earthquake reports, past flood
data for the United States, etc. GPS units and their use are going to be
incorporated into the labs on maps and location.
Tentative Schedule
A tentative schedule of your reading assignments, lecture topics and important
dates is attached. Consult the Great Basin Class Schedule or the General
Catalog for other important dates.
Geology 101
DATE
30 August
1 September
6 September
8 September
13 September
15 September
20 September
22 September
27 September
29 September
4 October
6 October
11 October
13 October
18 October
20 October
22 October
24 October
27 October
1 November
3 November
8 November
10 November
15 November
17 November
22 November
24 November
29 November
1 December
6 December
8 December
15 December
READING
1-27
Lab
27-79
Lab
80-133
Lab
136-191
1-191
192-245
Lab
246-305
Lab
382-436
Lab
193-305 &
382-436
Lab
9 AM-3PM
338-381
Lab
306-337
Lab
441-489
489-525
306-337
338-381
441-581
526-549
Lab
550-581
All labs
All of Book
FALL 2011
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE
TOPIC
Class Introduction & Introduction to Physical Geology
Crystal systems / Mineral Properties
Atoms, elements, Minerals, Igneous Rocks, Intrusive Activity
Identification of Common Minerals
Volcanism, Extrusive Rocks
Igneous Rocks Weathering and Soil
Sedimentary, Metamorphic and Hydrothermal Rocks
FIRST MID TERM EXAM (Chap. 1–7)– Report Topics Due
Geologic Time, Mass Wasting
Sedimentary Rocks
Streams and Floods, Ground Water
Metamorphic Rocks
Structure, Earthquakes
Relative Dating– Reference List due
SECOND MID TERM EXAM (Chap. 8 – 12)
Topographic Maps
SATURDAY FIELD TRIP
Deserts, Wind, Waves, Beaches and Coasts
Geologic Maps
Glaciers
Geologic Cross Sections– Field Trip Report due
Earth’s Interior, The Sea Floor
Plate Tectonics
THIRD MIDTERM EXAM (Chap. 13 – 19)
Mountains and Continents – Draft Paper due
Tectonic Plates
Thanksgiving Holiday
Geologic Resources
LAB EXAM
Oral Presentations begin / Final Paper Due
Oral Presentations Continue / Review for final exam
FINAL EXAM (7:00 PM)