GEOL 103 - Evolution of the Earth

6 CR

Surveys the geologic history of the earth, including the history of life on earth. Students learn to interpret rock and fossil evidence. The course is designed for non-majors includes laboratory work. Note: Fulfills laboratory science course requirement at BC.

Course Outcomes

Discuss basic terminology, principles and concepts of geology and paleontology.
Identify igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks and use their physical characteristics to interpret the geologic history of the Earth (i.e., learn to “read the rocks”).
Classify living and extinct organisms into major types, identify common fossils, and explain how they can be used to help determine depositional environments.
Interpret chronology of geologic events using relative and absolute dating principles, geologic cross sections and maps.
Discuss the geologic history of the Earth from the formation of the Solar System to the present.
Describe and evaluate the evidence for the origin and evolution of life on Earth.
Apply knowledge of geologic history to understand the future geologic and biologic change (e.g. greenhouse warming, rising sea level, mass extinctions)

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