GEOMORPHOLOGY - GLY 4700

Geomorphology, broadly speaking, is the study of landforms, the Earth’s surface, and processes acting on them. In this class we will explore the physical processes responsible for the continually evolving surficial geology and gain an appreciation for the dynamic nature of Earth’s surface. Through class lectures, discussions, group activities and laboratory and field exercises, we will learn about the historical development of the field, techniques of geomorphic investigation, surficial processes operating in diverse environments and landscapes, and computer and Internet resources for geomorphic research. Finally, through an independent research project or term paper, which will be presented to the class at the end of the semester, each person will have an opportunity to explore in depth a particular facet of geomorphology that he/she finds particularly intriguing.

The text listed below is available in the university bookstore. I will also occasionally assign outside readings which will be made available in the geology department learning center (CHE 326) short-term borrowing and copying. Reading assignments are listed on the course outline that follows - please do the assigned reading before coming to class and lab. I have also included a list of useful geomorphology texts and journals that can be found either in our library or through interlibrary loan. These will serve as useful reference materials as well as possible starting points for the term paper.

Bloom, Arthur L., 1988. Geomorphology - A Systematic Analysis of Late Cenozoic Lanforms,
Third Edition. Prentice Hall, New Jersey, 482 p.

Note: If you buy the text off campus, be certain you purchase the 1988 - 3rd Edition. Earlier editions (1991) are significantly different.

 

 Grading Policy:

 

5 %	Attendance and participation
15 %	Midterm Exam 1	Thursday, October 1, during class
15 %	Midterm Exam 2	Tuesday, Novermber 3, during class
15%	Final Exam	Tuesday, December 8, 1:00 - 3:00, CHE 102
30 %	Lab Exercises
20 %	Term paper/project	To be presented during the last meeting - Thursday, December 3

 

Attendance and participation are a specific portion of your semester grade because the success of the course depends on everybody’s input. You are expected to contribute to group discussions and lab activities, which includes being prepared by doing the assigned reading or completing assigned tasks necessary for the progress of your group. The midterm and final exams will be comprehensive essay-type problem solving evaluations. Grades for the lab exercises will be based on your completion of the assigned lab activity or a field trip report. Handouts will be given at the beginning of each lab describing the assignment and basis for grading. The project guidelines and expectations will be explained in detail the second week of class. Begin thinking early about topics of interest.

Labs will be held Thursday afternoon immediately following the class meeting. Several field trips are planned for the scheduled lab time - please pay attention to the syllabus and weather forecasts and dress appropriately. Changes to the schedule will be announced at least one week in advance.

Please note that two all-day Saturday field trips are scheduled for 10/31 and 11/14. This will be our chance to explore the geomorphology of Florida in some detail. Specific information will be provided closer to the field trip dates.

I expect everyone to be present at class meetings and lab sessions. If you must miss a class, please contact me or the TA as soon as possible (in advance, preferably) to make arrangements for making up missed work. Because of problems in the past with late work, I am making a strickt policy regarding turning in work: assignments must be turned in on the day they are due, and late work will be accepted only when specific arrangements have been discussed with me.

NO LATE OR MAKE-UP WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THURSDAY NOVEMBER 26!

In accordance with the university policy on the observance of religious holy days, students are expected to notify me in writing prior to the scheduled class meeting if they intend to be absent for a class or exam.

There is a Web page for the course that will offer useful information, review guides, Internet resources, and contain updates to the syllabus and assignments. You are encouraged to check the site often for changes and informative announcements. If anyone needs help gaining access to the Internet, please see me or the T.A. for assistance.