66101 Earth Science 1

This is an entry-level subject to the study of earth science concepts that introduces the basics necessary for geoscientific and environmental studies. It covers the following topics: the dynamic earth and its materials; the structure and evolution of the crust, continents, oceans and the atmosphere; geological history – what the rock sequences are telling us; time sequencing of major events which shaped our planet; the development of life forms and geological controls on these; structural geology; introduction to landscape development – fluvial and arid, the coastal zone; geological hazards; groundwater; engineering geology; resources and mining; environmental geology. Weekly practical classes cover a wide range of skills in map reading, examination and description of sediments, minerals, rocks and fossils; geological interpretation. These are complemented by two full-day field excursions and other self-paced field work.