geo1pro processes that shape the earth
PROCESSES THAT SHAPE THE EARTH
GEO1PRO
2015
Credit points: 15
Subject outline
This introductory earth science subject covers geological theories and the evidence for them, and examines geological processes and how these form rocks, deform the Earth's crust and cause changes to the surface of the Earth. Practical experience is directed at recognising common rocks and the minerals and the interpretation of geological maps. The generic skill of writing is specifically taught and assessed concurrently with discipline specific knowledge and skills.
SchoolSchool of Life Sciences
Credit points15
Subject Co-ordinatorJohn Webb
Available to Study Abroad StudentsYes
Subject year levelYear Level 1 - UG
Exchange StudentsYes
Subject particulars
Subject rules
PrerequisitesN/A
Co-requisitesN/A
Incompatible subjectsN/A
Equivalent subjectsN/A
Special conditionsN/A
Learning resources
Readings
| Resource Type | Title | Resource Requirement | Author and Year | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Readings | Essentials of geology | Prescribed | Marshak, S 2013 | 4TH ED. W.W. NORTON, NEW YORK |
| Readings | FSTE First Year Survival Guide (second edition) | Recommended | Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering | LA TROBE UNIVERSITY 2012 |
| Readings | Geology of Australia | Recommended | Johnson, D 2004 | CUP, CAMBRIDGE |
Graduate capabilities & intended learning outcomes
01. Identify rocks by observing their physical properties, including the presence of rock forming minerals, in order to assess the rock's probable means of formation.
- Activities:
- Students work in small groups in laboratory sessions and individually produce practical reports where writing and content are assessed. Students will complete an open book practical exam and short tests during practical sessions.
02. Observe and describe geological features in the field to interpret the distribution of rocks and geological structures, and/or paleo-environments of rock bodies.
- Activities:
- Excursion report will be completed in the field consisting of labelled sketches and written responses using observations made.
03. Recall stages in the development of the Earth and relate these to relative and absolute time scales.
- Activities:
- Concepts and knowledge will be assessed in a final exam where written responses to short answer or essay questions will be assessed.
04. Recall how natural processes interact with the Earth's surface and apply this understanding to explain the differences between the Earth's various environments.
- Activities:
- Concepts and knowledge will be assessed in a final exam where written responses to short answer or essay questions will be assessed.
05. Use recorded geological structural data and maps to analyse the geological development and history of a locality and interpret both the surface and the underground geological structures.
- Activities:
- Concepts and knowledge will be assessed in laboratory reports and a final exam.
06. Relate the Theory of Plate Tectonics to processes that result in the formations of rocks, minerals and structures within the Earth's lithosphere.
- Activities:
- Concepts and knowledge will be assessed in a final exam where extended written responses to short answer questions or essays will be required.
Subject options
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Melbourne, 2015, Semester 1, Day
Overview
Online enrolmentYes
Maximum enrolment sizeN/A
Enrolment information
Subject Instance Co-ordinatorJohn Webb
Class requirements
PracticalWeek: 10 - 22
One 3.0 hours practical per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
LectureWeek: 10 - 22
Three 1.0 hours lecture per week on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
Field TripWeek: 10 - 22
One 1.0 days field trip per study period on weekdays during the day from week 10 to week 22 and delivered via face-to-face.
Assessments
| Assessment element | Comments | % | ILO* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2500 word essay | 15 | 05, 06 | |
| 3 short practical tests | 5 | 01, 05 | |
| one 1.5-hour practical examination | 20 | 01, 05 | |
| one 2-hour theory examination | 40 | 03, 06, 05, 04 | |
| practical assignments and excursion report | 20 | 01, 02, 05 |