DESCRIPTION

This course is an introductory study into the origin and struc­ture of the earth. Emphasis will be placed on North America, dealing with the growth of continents, and mountain building. The course includes a study of evolutionary changes occurring in plant and animal life as documented by fossil remains and the interpretation of geologic forces by means of topographic and geologic maps. Field trips are an integral part of the course.

INSTITUTIONAL LEARNING GOALS

The following IVCC institutional learning goals will be addressed in this course:

• Communication – to communicate effectively.
• Inquiry – to apply critical, logical, creative, aesthetic, or quantitative analytical reasoning to formulate a judgement or conclusion.

COURSE OUTCOMES

Upon completion of the course, the student will be able to:

1. Understand how science works and the characteristics of historical geology.
2. Understand geologic processes and the impact of those processes on the geologic record.
3. Understand fossils and their impact on the geologic record.
4. Understand the structure, development, and use of the geologic time scale.
5. Understand the methods used to interpret geologic history.
6. Understand the evolution of the Earth’s surface over time.