Course Syllabus

Syllabus for GEOL102L (Geology of Planet Earth Lab)

 Meets at EH 2221, Monday 0800-1045

Instructor:  Matthew Dietel

Office:  Live Oak 1229

Office Hours: Monday 11-12am, or by appointment

Email: matthew.dietel.837@my.csun.edu 

Course Objective

GEOL 102L is an introductory course for an undergraduate focusing on the basics in the study of the geology of planet Earth. Geology is the history of the earth, its composition, and how it changes over time. It covers both large- and small-scale processes and can be extrapolated for application to planetary processes. My goal this semester will be to give you an educational overview of our planet, emphasize the importance of basic scientific literacy, and (hopefully) help you develop a passion for our local and global environments. 

Course Requirements

As academic discipline geology often requires knowledge of physics, mathematics, biology, and chemistry. This is a hybrid lab class; this means that some labs, as well as supplemental information for the class will be online (Moodle).  You must have access to a computer and the internet, and you must check Moodle and your email regularly for updates and communications regarding this class. Attendance is mandatory for the in class labs; you will not be able to make up a lab, no exceptions.

Textbook: “Laboratory Manual for Introductory Geology 4E”;  ISBN: 978-0-393-61752-8

Grading

Your grade in this class will be based off of the quality of your completed lab assignments, participation, and the score on your final exam. The exact percentage breakdown is as follows:

Labs (50%):  You are responsible for reading through each lab prior to class.  There will be one or two labs per class (see lab schedule below). If two lab activities are assigned on one day, they will be graded as one. There are no make-ups for missed labs (in class or on Moodle). 

Participation (15%): Some classes will have group activities or questions to turn in. This will act as both participation and attendance.

Quizzes (10%):  All quizzes will be on Moodle. There are no make-ups on quizzes.

Final Exam (25%): The final will be a cumulative test on topics covered in this lab and will be on the last day of class. 

Grading Scale: A (>90%), B (89%-80%), C (79%-70%), D (69%-60&), F (59%>) (No Incomplete grades will be given)

Ethics

Academic Dishonesty: Cheating will not be tolerated. If there is any confusion or ambiguity about this feel free to refer to Appendix E of the University Catalog or speak with me directly.  If I find any evidence of academic dishonesty, it will result in a failing grade for the class and notification to the Dean of Students, which may result in disciplinary action.