Geology 101 Introduction to Geology
Fall semester, 2009
Class: M. W. F. 8:00 to 8:50
Lab: Th: 8:00 to 9:50 (I); 2:00 to 3:50 (II)
Syllabus
Goal of the Course
The primary objectives of GEOL 101, Introduction to Geology, are to provide you with
the fundamental knowledge and tools necessary to understand the geologic processes
forming the composition, structure, and environments of the Earth. This course will
examine the common rock-forming minerals and their properties, different geologic
environments, plate tectonics and other issues related to geology that affect our
environment and everyday lives.
Course schedule and content
Topics are subjected to change upon notice
Week
Date
Topic
Lab
1
8/23
Plate tectonics
Plate Tectonics
2
8/30
Minerals
Minerals
3
9/6
Igneous rocks
Igneous rocks
4
9/13
Weathering and soil
Sedimentary rocks
5
9/20
Sedimentary rocks
Class Test I : 9/24
6
9/27
Metamorphic rocks
Metamorphic rocks
7
10/4
Geologic time
Lab Test I: 10/8
8
10/11
Geologic time
Map basics
9
10/18
Geologic structure
10/19-20 Fall break
10
10/25
Surface water
Map basics
11
11/1
Groundwater
Class Test II: 11/5
12
11/8
Glacier and desert
Topographic map
13
11/15
Earthquake
Topographic map
14
11/22
Earth interior
11/25-27 Thanksgiving
15
11/29
Plate tectonics
Lab Test II: 12/3
16
Class test III: 12/9 (Wed) at 3:30
Book required and recommended:
Everyone NEEDS a workbook: Laboratory Manual in Physical Geology by AGI
and NAGT
There is not a specified textbook for this course. Any textbook on the introduction
to geology can be used. A recommended one, which will be used in the lecture is:
Physical Geology, 11th Edition by Plummer, Carlson and McGeary. This
textbook has an associated web page for exercises.
An outline on the content of classroom discussion is maintained on webpage:
http://www.muskingum.edu/~ericlaw/courses/geology/index.html
Evaluation:
The grade of this course is calculated by weight percentage in each class work category.
The full score is 100%. The passing grade is 60%
Three class tests: 12% each, total 36%
Laboratory: Two tests: 12% each, total 24%
Other exercises: 15%
Class participation: 25%
Make-up policy:
• There is no make up for class participation. You can be excused from absence
by an advanced notice. Excuse of not attending class meeting can only be made
by e-mail BEFORE the start of class. You should keep a record of your e-mail
communication on all your excused absences.
• All major tests are to take on the scheduled time. If you could not take the test
due to a legitimate reason (defined by the college), you should try to arrange an
early test. If you failed to do so, the request of having a make up test may be
denied.
Instructor: Eric Law
Office phone: x 8242 (Notice: I DO NOT check voice message)
E-mail: ericlaw@muskingum.edu (Best way to contact)
Office Hours:
M. W. F. : 9 – 11
T: 10 -11
Other items:
Will be added on as needed or requested