MWCC College Catalog 2008-2009 — Earth Sciences
EAS115 BIOGEOLOGY: HISTORY OF LIFE
4 credits
In this course students will be introduced to basic biologic principles iof ecology and natural selection that have influenced the evolution of modern species. Examination of fossil and geologic records will illustrate how climate changes and major evolutionary developments over the earth’s history have culminated in the six major kingdoms of life. Students will also study what role humans are playing in the evolution and extinction of species today. Lab work will complement topics discussed during lectures. 3 hour lectures and two hour lab. Prerequisites: ENG100, RDG100, or placement. Spring.
EAS123 THE DINOSAURS
3 credits
This course deals with one of the most interesting life forms that have existed
on our planet, the dinosaurs. It will take the student on a journey through
nearly every aspect of dinosaur biology. The syllabus includes such topics
as a description of these animals, geologic time and sedimentary structures,
the origin of the dinosaurs (what characterizes a dinosaur), use of inductive
and deductive reasoning to arrive at a description of their anatomy, the
dinosaurian world (what was it really like), but the main topic for discussion
will be survey of dinosaur families. Depending on available time, a discussion
of the early and modern dinosaur hunters, trace fossils, the controversy
of hot-bloodedness, and the various theories dealing with extinction will
also be reviewed. Prerequisites: RDG100 and ENG100 or placement; or concurrent. Offered occasionally.
EAS125 THE PHYSICAL GEOLOGY OF THE DYNAMIC EARTH
4 credits
This course is an introductory course concerning the planet you occupy. There
are two major energy systems that make the Earth a dynamic planet: one is
the hydrologic system producing the circulation of water over the Earth’s
surface and powered by the sun. The movement of the oceans, rivers, underground
streams and in glaciers as well as atmospheric water produces changes in
the surface features. The other system is the tectonic system, which involves
the movement of materials powered by geothermal energy (energy from the Earth’s
interior). This system involves the evolution of continents and ocean basins,
and mountain building processes. Therefore, the major content of the course
will deal with these two systems and in particular the Earth’s rock
forms, and its weathering patterns. Geologic time will be viewed as a basis
for the changes in life forms and crustal deformation that have created the
familiar structures seen in our everyday world. Field trips will be available.
Three lecture and two hours lab per week. Prerequisites: RDG100, ENG100,
or placement. Fall or spring.