Document Type

Syllabus

Publication Date

Spring 2024

Course Description

Study of the geologic history of America via the National Park System. The course focuses on origin and evolution of landforms in various national parks and the geologic processes that created and sculpted them. Park features serve as a point of departure for interdisciplinary discussions on society's impact on the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere.

COURSE GOALS To recognize geologic features preserved within the National Park System and use these features as a means to gain an understanding of, and an appreciation for, the dynamic forces that constantly shape and change our evolving planet. By the end of the course, you should be able to identify the major geologic features preserved in each park studied and to describe their origin/evolution.

Student Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to…

  • develop a love for learning and exude a commitment to continued learning throughout their lives (especially in the context of visiting National Parks with their friends and families throughout their lives).
  • recognize various geological features/landforms and explain the process(es) that form them.
  • demonstrate knowledge of geologic time and earth history (as recorded in rocks exposed in the National Park System).
  • demonstrate knowledge of the physical and chemical properties of Earth materials & reservoirs (e.g., minerals, rocks, soils, water, etc.) that comprise and/or shape features in the National Park System.

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