MWCC College Catalog — Earth Sciences

EAS115 BIOGEOLOGY: HISTORY OF LIFE

4 credits
In this course, students will be introduced to basic biologic principles of 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. three-hour lectures and two-hour labs. 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.