Course

Course Summary
Credit Type:
Course
ACE ID:
COLP-0020
Organization's ID:
PSI131
Organization:
Location:
Classroom-based
Length:
8 weeks
Dates Offered:
Credit Recommendation & Competencies
Level Credits (SH) Subject
Lower-Division Baccalaureate 3 Earth Science
Description

Objective:

The course objective is to provide a study of earth science, with a focus on physical and historical geology, meteorology, and descriptive astronomy.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Describe the geologic makeup of the earth
  • Identify and summarize the principles of plate tectonics and continental drift
  • Identify and analyze the causes, nature, and effects of volcanoes and earthquakes
  • Examine the basic makeup and behavior of the hydrosphere
  • Identify and summarize rock and mineral types, origins, and uses
  • Identify and describe various types of erosion
  • Identify examples of the forces of nature and analyze their effects on various surface processes (such as streams, groundwater, coastal processes, glaciers, and wind)
  • Identify the basic characteristics of the major types of bodies in the solar system
  • Identify and explain the tenets of theories on the origin of the universe
  • Compare and contrast mineral and energy resources and their importance
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the nature of science including the steps in the scientific method

General Topics:

  • Geology
  • Earth systems: cycles and loops
  • Hydrologic cycles
  • Physical geology
  • Fossils, faults, sandstone layers, conglomerates, and isotopes
  • Interior Earth
  • Plates tectonics
  • Igneous activity
  • Mountains
  • Magma and lava
  • San Andreas Fault
  • Earth surface
  • Ice glaciers
  • Geysers and hot springs
  • Running and ground water
  • Polar ice caps
  • Greenhouse effect
  • Oceanography
  • Continental shelf, slope, and rise
  • Abyssal plain
  • Oceans and climate
  • Atmosphere
  • Climate data
  • Ozone
  • Seasons
  • Astronomy
  • Solar systems
  • Sun
  • Life on other planets
Instruction & Assessment

Instructional Strategies:

  • Audio Visual Materials
  • Case Studies
  • Computer Based Training
  • Discussion
  • Learner Presentations
  • Lectures
  • Practical Exercises

Methods of Assessment:

  • Case Studies
  • Examinations
  • Performance Rubrics (Checklists)
  • Presentations
  • Quizzes
  • Written Papers

Minimum Passing Score:

70%
Supplemental Materials