Text: Brian J. Skinner and Stephen C. Porter. The Dynamic Earth. Fourth Edition.
Course Organization: Lectures will be given on Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 to 9:40 AM. The sequence of lecture topics will follow the sequence of chapters in the text (with few exceptions), and we will cover the vast majority of the material presented in the text book. Also we will discuss some other issues, so please do not miss lectures!
Course Objective: To use observations, measurements, and the logic of science to gain an understanding of, and an appreciation for the Earth's dynamic systems.
Examinations: One midterm (one-hour long), short quizzes, and a two-hour final examination are scheduled. The quizzes and examinations will be various combinations of multiple-choice, short-essay, and sketch-drawing questions.
Homework: Homework assignments will consist of writing or sketching responses to selected review questions at the end of each chapter, and are designed to help the student prepare for the exams and quizzes. Homework MUST be submitted to the instructor by the indicated due date. Late homework will not be accepted for grading.
Grading: Final grades will be determined on the basis of relative performance. Midterm exam will count for 100, quizzes and homework will count for 100, labs100, final projects 100 points and final exam 100 points.
Reading: You are expected to read the text book from cover to cover. I will also give you additional papers to read.
Laboratory and field sessions: You are required to attend each laboratory and field session in the course.
Office Hours: If you cannot make it to the above office hours, you can
come visit me anytime that is convenient to both of us. If you see me around
campus, please don't hesitate to ask any questions that you might have. If you
are having trouble finding me (which won't happen), first check with our department
secretary Mrs. Sarah Rechtzigel in Mudd 167 (646-4407), if that does not work
try calling me at home (664-9229) before 9:00 PM, or leave a note on my bulletin
board or leave message on my voice mail.
ACCOMMODATION AND ALTERNATIVE FORMATS
Reasonable accommodations will be provided for students with documented physical,
sensory, learning, and psychiatric disabilities. Contact the instructor to work
out the details of accommodations. Class materials prepared by the instructor
can be made available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact the
instructor as early as possible..