GLG 101 - Introduction to Geology I

1. The scientific method
2. Elemental composition of crust
3. Physical properties of minerals
4. Mineral keys and identification of common minerals
5. The rock cycle
6. Igneous rocks and igneous processes.
7. Weathering
8. Sedimentary rocks and sedimentary processes
9. Metamorphic rocks and metamorphic processes
10. Plate tectonics:
    1. development of theory
    2. plate boundaries
    3. implications for local/regional landscape development
    4. critical analysis of this theory in its historical context
11. Seismicity
12. Geologic structures and their development: folds and faults
13. Geologic time, including fundamental principles of historical geology
14. Maps: topographic and geologic
15. Critical analysis, synthesis, and expression of geologic data in a precise manner

1. Use scientific reasoning to evaluate physical and natural phenomena. (1-13)
   1. Describe and utilize the scientific method.
   2. Identify rocks and minerals and rock-forming processes.
   3. Describe fundamental geologic principles.
   4. Define common geologic terms.
2. Identify the unifying themes of the scientific field of study. (5-12)
   1. Recognize plate tectonics as the unifying theory for earth science.
   2. Describe the theory of plate tectonics, its historical development, and plate boundary interactions and their consequences.
   3. Predict outcomes of tectonic interactions.
3. Interpret the numerical and/or graphical presentation of scientific data, (1-15) 
   1. Identify, synthesize, interpret, and evaluate data associated with the discipline of physical geology.
   2. Draw conclusions from geologic data presented on graphs or charts regarding earth's interior, minerals, rocks, plate tectonics, seismicity, geologic time and geologic structures.
4. Use the tools and equipment necessary for basic scientific analysis and research. (3-5 and 14)
   1. Perform laboratory skills used to identify the physical properties of minerals and rocks.
   2. Use a rock/mineral key.
   3. Use topographic and geologic maps.
5. Record the results of investigation through writing. (15)