Honors Geology
and Astronomy Course Syllabus
Course Name:
Geology and Astronomy
I Course Information
Course Number: 4312
Level: Honors
Department: Science
II Course Description
Prerequisite: 2
Science Credits
Open to: Juniors, Seniors
Length: Year
Credit: 1
Summary: The fall geology portion of this course is concerned with the chemical
and physical changes of the earth, considers the history, origin and
characteristics of landforms, surficial and internal geological processes. The
major premise of this study is to have students understand the constant physical
changes the earth undergoes. The spring astronomy portion includes the study of
the relationships of earth as a body in space, the scientific laws which govern
the universe, our solar system and its origin, the structure and evolution of
stars, the past and future of the universe, life in the universe and
extraordinary celestial bodies. Learning activities include lectures,
demonstrations, lab work, and written projects. The difference between this
course and the College Prep level is the degree to which abstract ideas and
numerical relationships are taught and the reading level of the textbook.
III Course Goals
1. Use inquiry,
reasoning and critical thinking skills to assess and analyze geological and
astronomical phenomena.
2. Understand and apply the scientific process skills to answer questions and
solve problems within a geological and astronomical context.
3. Use collaborative groups to conduct scientific investigations and share
ideas.
4. Identify, understand, and appreciate the connection between geological and
astronomical concepts and applications within the everyday world.
5. Provide opportunities for students to utilize educational institutions,
programs, and technologies.
IV Textbooks and Materials
Essentials of
Geology & Geode CD,
by: Lutgens, Tarbuck, & Tasa
Astronomy Today & CD
(2nd semester), by: Eric Chaisson, Steve McMillan
V Course Outline
First Semester
Units of Instruction:
I.
Geologic Thought, History, and Time
II.
Earth Chemistry and Minerals
III.
Rocks and the Rock Cycle
IV.
Plate Tectonics and the Formation of Landforms
V.
Earthquakes and Volcanoes
VI.
Weathering, Erosion, and Soils
VII.
Water, Ice, and Rock
Major
Assessments: unit tests and quizzes
Second Semester Units of
Instruction and Assessments:
Units of Instruction:
The Study of Astronomy
I.
The Astronomy Lab
II.
The Laws of the
Heavens
Planetary Astronomy
III.
Earth as a Planet
In Space
IV.
The Moon
V.
Solar System:
Family of the Sun
Stellar Astronomy
VI.
The Sun
VII.
Stars, Galaxies,
and the Universe
Inner Space: The Atmosphere
VIII.
Forces in the
Atmosphere
Major Assessments: unit tests
and quizzes
(Parents
and students: please consult individual teachers for grading policies, extra
credit info, class procedures, etc.)
