ESCI 119: Physical Geology without Laboratory

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 3
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 54
Lab Hours: 0
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 108
Strongly Recommended: ENGL 101.
District General Education: B2. Natural Sciences - Physical Sciences
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

This course investigates the dynamic nature of the Earth through the study of earth processes including: plate tectonics, earthquakes and the Earth’s interior, mineral and rock systems, crustal deformation, weathering processes, glaciers, and deserts. Students may not receive credit for both ESCI 119 and ESCI 120. 54 lecture hours.

Course Objectives

  • Define and describe geologic processes and surroundings
  • Identify and evaluate the role of geologic processes in shaping the environment
  • Evaluate the geologic limits of natural resources
  • Evaluate geologic hazards

Major Course Content

  1. Introduction, Matter and Minerals
  2. The Scientific Method and the History of Geology
  3. Igneous and Metamorphic Processes
  4. Volcanism and Igneous Rocks
  5. Sedimentary Processes
  6. Earth History
  7. Geologic Time - Relative and Absolute Dating
  8. Fossils and Fossilization
  9. The Earth's Interior and Earthquakes
  10. Mountains and Mountain Building
  11. Geologic Structures
  12. Plate Tectonics
  13. Weathering and Soils
  14. Mass Movement
  15. Running Water
  16. Oceans
  17. Deserts
  18. Glaciation
  19. Geology and Humanity
  20. Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Geology internet website produced by the USGS, newspaper articles, and professional journals (e.g., Geology Today and GSA).

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

Relay the information gathered from impact studies, professional journals, websites, and newspapers through a scientific essay.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Study geologic impact studies for the housing project in which you live, or the college that you attend.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Online Education Lecture

IGETC Area 5: Physical and Biological Sciences

5A. Physical Science