Course description. Geology 201 is the first course of a year-long sequence in geology which examines the nature and origins of rocks and minerals; the processes responsible for Earth's structures and landforms and the history of the planet as evidenced in the rock and fossil record. G201 focuses on minerals, igneous rocks and processes, volcanic hazards, sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, mineral resources and plate tectonics. Considerable emphasis is placed on local geology. Class work includes lecture, laboratory and field study. Normally offered Fall quarter. Lecture 3; Lab 3; Credits 4
Pinnacle Rock: eroded remains of a tuff cone in the Galapagos Islands
(click on photo to enlarge)
Geology 201 Course Syllabus, Fall 2006
Office: 237 Ochoco, Phone: 383-7557
Office hours: T & R 9:30-10:15 and 11:45-2:45
e-mail: breynolds@cocc.edu
Course Materials:
Text: The Changing Earth by Monroe and Wicander
Lab Manual: G201 Course Packet by Reynolds
Introduction. Earth is a very old yet dynamic planet. As a result the Earth has undergone many profound changes, both at the surface and deep within its interior. Other changes such as the formation and erosion of mountain ranges occur so slowly that it is hard to believe that anything at all is happening. This is the realm of geology: the scientific study of the rocky components of our planet (and other planets) together with the processes responsible for their formation and change. Geology includes three major areas: (1) geologic materials including the origin (ex: volcanoes), variety and use of rocks and minerals (ex: gold and diamonds; (2) geologic processes which affect rocks such as earthquakes, rivers, glaciers and the formation of mountains; (3) geologic history which includes the fossilized record of ancient life forms preserved in rocks, together with the origin, age and development of the Earth. Because geology covers a lot of ground, this course is just one part of a yearlong in-depth sequence in geology. Each quarter will focus on one of the 3 major areas of geologic study.
Better get out of the way. That rock behind you is HOT and MOVING!
(click on photo to enlarge)
The geologic processes that shape this planet exert an especially profound influence on the Pacific Northwest. Here in central Oregon geology is everywhere, and it influences nearly every aspect of our lives. The rocks that lie beneath us and those in the nearby Cascade Mountains are a valuable natural resource. Much of the water that is an essential part of our lives is stored in glaciers, lakes and streams located high in the Cascades. That water makes its way to us by moving over and within the rocks. In addition, many of the local industries derive their products directly and indirectly from the rocks and flowing water. Moreover, the stunning Cascade volcanoes provide us with a wide variety of year-around recreational activities. It is therefore especially appropriate that we take the time to examine our geologic landforms and processes and learn to interpret and understand the rocks around us. Accordingly, my primary goal for this course is to introduce you to the broad range of earth materials and dynamic processes within the realm of geology. Along the way I will point out many of the exceptional geologic examples from Oregon and around the world.
Recent volcanism on the west flank of Cero Azul volcano in the Galapagos archipelago
(click on photo to enlarge)
You should be aware from advising that the Geology 201-202-203 sequence may be used to meet the general education lab science requirement for all associate degrees offered in Oregon. I assume that you've had no prior exposure to geology. However, I do assume that you have adequate math, writing and reading skills as well as the time commitment to participate and succeed in this course. You will also benefit if you have basic computer skills such as word processing, internet, and e-mail. Please be aware, however, this is a 200-level college science course and as such there is a significant amount of material that will be covered. You will therefore need to spend several hours per week reading and studying. Speaking from experience, you are likely to get more understanding out of the lectures and do well in this course if you come to every class and read the assigned material in the text ahead of time. I encourage you to ask questions during lecture or stop by my office if you need help. You will also benefit if you have basic computer skills (word processing ,internet, e-mail).
Lecture. The various geology topics that we will cover are outlined in the following class schedule. Because this course is taught in a large lecture hall, noise and disruptions, no matter how unintentional, must be minimized. Please be considerate of others and do not walk into class late in front of students or engage in any unnecessary conversation that may interfere with other student’s ability to hear or see me during the lecture.
View of North Sister volcano from Collier cone.
(click on photo to enlarge)
Mineral Fact Sheets. To help you become more familiar with what minerals are, how they occur and what they are used for, you will conduct background research on two different minerals of your choice (pre-approved by me). An example is included in the course packet. These assignments are due on the dates shown on the schedule. I will not accept late assignments.
Eruption Summaries. You will compile a record of three different volcanic eruptions that occur during the course. Each eruption should include the date of the event and a one page summary of the event. Be sure to include the specific location of the eruption, the extent of the area affected, type(s) of hazard(s) observed, past activity, amount of death and destruction, and source(s) of the information. You may also include relevant maps and photos. Your sources will most likely be a newspaper (include name, date and page), television (include the channel, program, date and time you watched) or the internet (include the web address and date you accessed it). An example is included in the course packet. Your summaries are due on the dates shown on the schedule. I will not accept late summaries.
Lab. Lab activities will be conducted weekly in Ochoco 210. Here we will further explore geologic materials and processes, through the hands-on examination of minerals, rocks and maps. Your assignments will include making observations, descriptions, identifications and interpretations similar to those that a geologist might be required to make as a part of their job. The purpose of the lab is to help you understand and apply geologic concepts, to stimulate your curiosity and to give you the opportunity to ask me questions in a more informal setting. Each lab will begin promptly with a brief introduction by me. The remainder of the lab will be devoted to working on your lab assignment. Your lab assignment will include a lab exercise pertinent to recent lecture topics. Bring your text, class notes and course packet to every lab. In order for me to grade and return your work quickly, lab assignments must be completed and turned in before you leave the lab. Late assignments will not be accepted. If you have a conflict and cannot attend a lab, you should contact me ahead of time to make other arrangements. Please be aware however that makeups are not allowed for "after-the-fact" excuses or repeated “no shows”.
Llao rock on the north wall of Crater Lake
(click on photo to enlarge)
Field Trips. An integral part of geology involves the examination and interpretation of field exposures of rocks. I have scheduled three Saturday or Sunday, day-long field trips. These are extra credit activities and are worth 10 points each. A sign-up sheet is located outside my office door so you can select the trip that you want to attend. Seating is limited, so sign up early for the best selection. Vans will depart from the lower parking lot behind the Boyle Education Center. Bring a lunch, the appropriate field guide from your course packet, a pencil and clothing for adverse weather conditions. Providing there is space, you may attend more than one field trip.
How to Obtain Course Materials. The following is a list of ways that you can access the various course related materials. In addition, I will set aside time during the first week for folks who are interested in learning how to use the computer to access course materials.
1. The text and complete course packet can be purchased from the college bookstore.
2. Copies of the text has been placed on 3 hr reserve in the library. You can check it out to read.
3. A MS Word version of the course packet can be downloaded from the Blackboard: course site located at: http://bb.cocc.edu/webapps/login/ In order to enter Blackboard you will need a log-in ID number (your COCC 9 digit PIN) and password. Your Initial Blackboard Password = First initials of First and last name in capital letters followed by the "mmddyy" digits of your date of birth e.g., Joe Student, January 6, 1986 = JS010686)
Grading. There are a total of 530 possible points for the course. Three exams will be given during the course. The dates of these exams are listed on the accompanying schedule. The exams will consist of a combination of essay, multiple choice and fill in the blank questions. Study guides are provided in your course packet to help you in preparing for exams. All exams are “closed book” which means that you may only use the information stored in your brain to complete a test. You cannot use notes, texts, or another student to assist you, nor can you assist another student in completing their exam. I consider all of these to be cheating offenses and you will receive a score of “0” for the exam. In addition, you must take the exams on the designated date and time. If you miss an exam you will get a “0” for that test. In the event of an emergency (or if you have special testing requirements) you should contact me ahead of time. In the rare case that a late exam is permitted, there will be a mandatory 10 point deduction. The final grade that you earn in this course will be based upon the scores you receive in the categories listed below. In figuring your final grade, I will drop your lowest one lab score. Letter grades will be assigned as follows from the percentage of the total points possible:
A = 93-100% A- = 90-92% B+ = 87-89% B = 83-86%, B- = 80-82%
C+ = 77-79% C = 70-76%, D = 60-69% F = less than 60%.
Grading category
Accessing your grade. You can check your grades on-line at any time during the course by following these directions:
1. Launch an Internet browser and go to the COCC home page at http://www.cocc.edu
2. click on the “my log in” button located near the top of the page.
3. Scroll down the new page until you come to Micrograde, then click on “log in now” You will be taken to a new page titled WebGrage.
4. In the white box located in the upper left corner of the page type in your instructors last name, then click on “search”
5. A list of instructors and their respective institutions will be displayed on the screen. Click on the instructor that matches your institution.
6. You will be taken to a new page that shows the courses offered by your instructor. Click on the link to your course. You will be taken to the log in for your course.
7. Enter your Student ID (ex. 820012345) and Password (first initial and last name in lower case, ex: epresley) in the white boxes. Click the Login button.
8. You'll be taken to YOUR private student page, containing the reports your instructor has posted regarding your work.
9. Click on any of the hyperlinks to the reports your instructor has made available for you to view.
10. When you are finished, close the browser window.
Extra credit? Occasionally students ask if there is anything they can do to improve their grade. My first response is always: “Yes, study more.” I say that because I know from experience that most students do not study as much as they should. Having said that, a limited amount of extra credit (up to 20 points) is available in this course in the form of attendance on field trips. However, you should understand that extra credit means, "credit in addition to what is normally required". Extra credit is not a substitute for the missed assignments and tests that you should have completed. Therefore, extra credit will count towards your grade only if you've completed all of your other assignments and taken all of the tests. Your extra credit will be added to the overall point total.
I have structured this course so as to provide equal opportunities for all students to succeed. In addition, I try very hard to treat everyone fairly and to base grades upon on objective academic criteria. Moreover, I am very willing to help students that are having difficulty providing they show up for class regularly and come prepared and willing to try. In most cases the grade you earn will reflect your effort. If you are having difficulty or feel that you need additional help, please contact me early in the course either in person, by phone or by e-mail. The success of hundreds of students thus far indicates that most of you will do quite well. However, those who include chronic absenteeism, dishonesty, or habitual excuses in their academic repertoire generally find college and my courses in particular quite difficult. Your education is an investment in your future. I encourage you to give it your best shot. Good luck. Now let’s rock!
G201 Geology Course Outcome Statements
1) Students will have an develop an understanding of the basic concepts, processes, and analytic tools as in the science of geology. These include fundamental scientific theories such as plate tectonics, the origin of volcanoes and the role of rocks as history books for interpreting our planet. G201 will expose students to a diversity of topics within the realm of geology with an emphasis on earth materials while exploring the relationships among other scientific disciplines. (ex: chemistry of rocks and minerals; physics of Earth’s deep interior)
2) Through inquiry-based, hands-on laboratory activities and field experiences students will develop specific experimental skills and knowledge leading to the ability to identify, implement, and interpret scientific information as it relates to geology. Students will apply their knowledge and skills and employ logical scientific methodologies in a variety of numerical and descriptive problem solving situations.
3) Students will enhance their communication skills through oral and written activities such as mineral fact sheets and volcanic eruption reports, test essay questions, interactive questioning and lab write-ups.
4) Students will be able to evaluate and articulate the application and relevance of specific geologic topics to the world around them at a personal, community, and global level. As a result, students will better understand the significant role of science, and geology in particular, in modern society. Moreover, students will become more scientifically literate citizens capable of formulating informed logical opinions regarding the application of science and technology to addressing such problems as pollution, energy demands and mineral extraction.
