Geology 111 Syllabus

Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the physical and chemical structure of the earth’s interior and how plate tectonics form major geologic features (faults, folds, domes, basins, etc.)
• Explain how/which mineral properties are used to identify them and which minerals are associated with specific rock type
• Recognize the roles and functions of the geologic and hydrologic cycle
• Demonstrate an understanding of the geologic time scale and the importance of both relative and radiometric dating techniques.
• Identify reliable sources for, and evaluate the significance of geologic information as it relates to a specific research topic.

Description

This introductory course is for anyone curious about active geologic processes and resources. It focuses on recognizing and understanding how observed features on the earth came to exist and how they may change in the future. Students learn to understand and identify the materials that make up the earth. They also learn to identify and interpret landforms and features from topographic maps, remote sensing images, and geologic maps.

Prerequisites

None

Required Materials

Textbook and Online Tools

EARTH An Introduction to Physical Geology, 12th Edition WITH access to MasteringGeology

There are ONLY two sources from which you may purchase this text with access to the required MasteringGeology online tools. Use ONE of the following sources to make your purchase. 

• Pearson 
  Registration instructions and the Pearson Course ID for your specific section are found in this I-Learn page: Using MasteringGeology > Access Pearson Online Tools.  
  
  OR
• BYU-Idaho University Store 
  Purchase the access code associated with the ISBN below. This will ensure you purchase both the etext and MasteringGeology. 
• ISBN: 978-0-134-28824-6    
  This option is provided to allow you to pay for the required materials using your student account, if desired. If you choose this option, the access code will be emailed to you from the University Store, unless your order includes other items that will be shipped. If the latter is the case, the access code will be shipped with your other items. After you receive the access code, follow the instructions in the Pearson option above, where you will be prompted to enter your access code.

***Do not purchase these materials from any other source. You will not be able to find this item at a lower cost elsewhere. If you use another source you run a substantial risk of purchasing the wrong item.***

Computer Access

It is assumed that you either have your own computer or you have consistent access to a computer. You need to have the appropriate permissions on your computer to download lesson content, access websites, and update and/or download software as needed along with consistent, reliable access to an Internet connection. Visit the Orientation to Online Learning page in the first lesson of your course to verify that you have your computer set up properly.

Microsoft Office Suite

You will use Microsoft Office products in this course. If you do not yet have the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) on your computer, you may use this free download to obtain the software.

Keys to Success

BYU-Idaho Learning Model

All courses, including online courses, at BYU-Idaho follow a pattern of learning that enables students to take more responsibility for their own learning and for helping to teach one another. This pattern is called the Learning Model. Here are two pages to help you better understand the Learning Model.

Take Charge of your education by applying the Learning Model | Learning Model interactive tutorial

Tips for Success in this Course

Since this is a three-credit course, you should expect to spend around 9-12 hours per week (3-4 hours per credit-hour) completing course activities and assessments. Plan your weekly schedule wisely to set aside adequate study time and allow you to work at a healthy, steady pace throughout the course.

Read your Questions and Conversations Discussion Board each week before beginning the lesson. Your instructor will provide timely information about changes, expectations and other important things to notes as you begin the lesson.

Grading Policies

Late Work Policy

No late work is allowed in this course. Plan your weekly schedule wisely to set aside adequate study time and allow you to work at a healthy, steady pace throughout the course.

Assignments Schedule

Grading Scale 

University Policies

Student Honor Code

Student Honor is following the path of discipleship and learning to be more like Christ - learning to think, to feel, and to act more as He does. Following the Honor Code is of great importance as you strive to be a disciple of Christ. Academic honesty and integrity is expected of all BYU-I students.

• To copy another’s work from the Internet, a book, or from any other source and claiming it to be your own work is plagiarism. Read the official definitions of plagiarism and cheating from the Academic Honesty portion of the Honor Code. Each case of plagiarism or cheating will be dealt with by the instructor. Any academic dishonesty issue will be referred to the BYU-I Dean of Students, if necessary. When working on a group project, you have the responsibility to assure that others in the group do not plagiarize.
• Even though you are taking this course online, BYU-Idaho’s Dress and Grooming standards still apply.

By adhering to the Honor Code you will create a learning environment, “consistent with the ideals and principles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” ( Honor Code webpage).

Student Policies

You are responsible for understand all university student policies. Read the Student Policies and Procedures which include Student Honor, Students with Disabilities, Sexual Harassment, Complaints and Grievances, etc. There is also a University Policies page in your course with helpful contact information. Student Support

Tutoring and Academic Support

Tutoring options for online students are available through the Academic Support Centers. There are tutors available to help you with your writing questions and there might be course-specific tutoring available. Check the Online Tutoring page for more details.

Online Support Center

The Online Support Center provides many links and contact information for services such as: technology support, registration, Academic support and other student resources.

Disclaimers

The instructor reserves the right to change any part of this syllabus at any time during the semester in order to adapt to changing course needs. You will be notified prior to any changes that may take place.