May 20, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Catalog
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PHS 104 - Introduction to Geology


Credits: 4
3 Lecture Hours 2 Lab Hours

Description
(Formerly GGY-201) This is a course for both science and non-science majors. Students learn various aspects of physical geology. Students explore topics such as volcanism, glaciation, stream development, rock formation, geological record and geological time. The accompanying laboratory component allows students to practice scientific procedures by conducting investigations which are coordinated with lecture topics.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

  1. Describe the interior structure of the Earth.
  2. Distinguish between different types of minerals and rocks on the Earth’s surface.
  3. Identify geological features on Earth’s surface.
  4. Describe the effect of geological processes on the evolution of the Earth’s surface.
  5. Investigate aspects of geology that are coordinated with lecture topics by conducting laboratory experiments.
Listed Topics
  1. Plate tectonics
  2. Geological time and Earth’s geological history
  3. Elements and minerals
  4. Volcanism
  5. Igneous rocks
  6. Weathering and soil
  7. Sedimentary rocks
  8. Metamorphic rocks
  9. Earthquakes
  10. Earth’s interior properties
  11. Streams and floods
  12. Ground water
  13. Glaciation
  14. Deserts
Reference Materials
Textbook, laboratory handouts, geological materials and activities from the internet
Students who successfully complete this course acquire general knowledge, skills and abilities that align with CCAC’s definition of an educated person. Specifically, this course fulfills these General Education Goals:
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
  • Quantitative & Scientific Reasoning
Approved By: Dr. Quintin B. Bullock Date Approved: 04/12/2024
Last Reviewed: 04/12/2024


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