GEOL 117 Introduction to Physical Geology Laboratory

Students will investigate the earth through exercises involving the identification of rocks and minerals and the interpretation of topographic maps. Students will practice problem solving and assessment skills through map and picture analysis in order to illustrate comprehension of the scientific method and geologic principles and concepts. This course has required weekend field trips.

Credits

1

Prerequisite

Pre- or corequisite: GEOL 107

Hours Weekly

3 hours lab

Course Objectives

1. Perform geology-based experiment(s) to investigate an assigned laboratory scenario and
   know and observe all safety rules.
2. Analyze and interpret data collected in the laboratory.
3. Communicate fundamental concepts in geology using appropriate vocabulary, units, symbols,
   and notations.
4. Apply geological principles and scientific reasoning when observing an area outside of the lab
   environment (field trips).
5. Apply geologic principles and scientific reasoning to answer qualitative questions pertaining
   to, but not limited to, rock and mineral types, rates of plate motion, geologic time, stream and
   groundwater movement, and geologic structures.
6. Analyze, justify, and interpret the reasonableness of solutions to problems related to geology.

Course Objectives

1. Perform geology-based experiment(s) to investigate an assigned laboratory scenario and
   know and observe all safety rules.

   This objective is a course Goal Only

2. Analyze and interpret data collected in the laboratory.

   This objective is a course Goal Only

3. Communicate fundamental concepts in geology using appropriate vocabulary, units, symbols,
   and notations.

   Learning Activity Artifact

   • Other (please fill out box below)
   • Lab report questions

   Procedure for Assessing Student Learning

   • Scientific Reasoning Rubric

   Scientific Reasoning

   • SR1
4. Apply geological principles and scientific reasoning when observing an area outside of the lab
   environment (field trips).

   This objective is a course Goal Only

5. Apply geologic principles and scientific reasoning to answer qualitative questions pertaining
   to, but not limited to, rock and mineral types, rates of plate motion, geologic time, stream and
   groundwater movement, and geologic structures.

   Learning Activity Artifact

   • Other (please fill out box below)
   • Lab quiz questions

   Procedure for Assessing Student Learning

   • Scientific Reasoning Rubric

   Scientific Reasoning

   • SR2
6. Analyze, justify, and interpret the reasonableness of solutions to problems related to geology.

   Learning Activity Artifact

   • Other (please fill out box below)
   • Lab quiz questions

   Procedure for Assessing Student Learning

   • Scientific Reasoning Rubric

   Scientific Reasoning

   • SR3