vcc.ca
GEOG 1110: Earth Systems
Effective date
September 2016
Department
UT Humanities
School
Arts and Sciences
Description
This course examines the important elements of the global environment, emphasizing interactions between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. Major topics include the global energy system, atmospheric and oceanic processes, hydrologic, tectonic and biogeochemical cycles, geomorphic processes and landforms, essential ecological concepts, as well as world soil and vegetation patterns. The tools and methods of study applied in the discipline of physical geography and the relationships of human-environment interactions are also considered.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
Admission to University Transfer program at VCC.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the foundation of understanding about Earth’s systems: landforms, climate, soil and vegetation.
- Describe the components of these systems and their interactions.
- Communicate clearly about the origin and dynamics of Earth’s physical features.
- Describe observable spatial and temporal patterns.
- Demonstrate ability to critically evaluate global interdisciplinary processes.
- Exhibit capacity for critical thinking about decision making as it relates to human-environment interactions.
- Participate collaboratively in research projects and laboratories.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 60
Total Hours: 60
Total Hours: 60
Instructional Strategies
The course will include lectures and group discussions.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
D
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Midterm Exam |
45 |
Three midterm exams at 15% each |
|
Participation |
10 |
Participation in class activities |
|
Assignments |
15 |
Written assignment |
|
Project |
10 |
In-class presentation |
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Physical geography essentials and themes: Earth’s form, motions and physical realms
- Tools and methodology in geography: Spatial data, maps and projections, GIS, remote sensing
- Global energy system: Atmospheric composition and structure, radiation and energy transfer
- Atmospheric and oceanic circulation: Pressure and wind systems, ocean currents
- Weather development: Hydrological cycle, precipitation processes, intense weather systems
- Climate controls and water balance: Climate classification and patterns, global climate change
- Earth crust and rock cycle: Minerals and rocks, plate tectonics, weathering and mass movements
- River processes and landforms: Fluvial geomorphology, surface runoff, stream flow and floods
- Wind-generated waves and landforms: Aeolian processes, deserts and coastal environments
- Glacial processes and landforms, Alpine and continental glaciers, periglacial landforms, ice ages
- Biosphere essentials: Ecological processes and systems, soil formation and global patterns
- Vegetation structure: Biogeogeaphy, plant adaptations, ecological succession and world biomes
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.