OBJECTIVES - To learn the basic principles of environmental geology...how humans interact with their earth environment.

SKILLS TO BE ACQUIRED - See class schedule. We will discuss the effects of the topics on our daily lives.

PARTICIPATION - This is a discussion-formatted course. It can only work with active participation by all. You must not only be punctual and present, but attentive and willing to speak up! Participation in the discussion constitutes a significant portion of your grade.

TEXTBOOKS - Murck, Skinner, and Porter - Environmental Geology. Always bring text to class. We frequently refer to text figures and tables.

MATERIALS - You will need a looseleaf notebook for your notes and handouts.

ORAL PRESENTATIONS - A major part of the course will involve student presentations and discussion. You will select an appropriate (approved) topic, research it, and present a 20 minute talk. We will then have a question and answer session, followed by a general discussion.

RELIABILITY - You are expected to make your presentation at the scheduled time. Re-scheduling may be possible in the event of a true emergency, provided written documentation from the dean or the commandant is submitted before the event. In case of a true medical emergency, the written documentation must come from the attending physician. Failure to observe this policy will result in a grade deduction of at least 10 points.

GRADES:
    Oral presentations #1        25%
    Oral presentations #2        25%
    Participation                        25% (*see note below)
    Exam                                     25%
                                                100%
*Participation grade is based on  interest and participation in classroom discussion,  punctuality, and attendance (one must be present to participate).

STANDING ASSIGNMENT - Read the newspapers and watch the news on TV. Bring to class hard copy (photocopy ar hand-written notes) on current events issues (less than one week old) that are related to environmental geology.

ASSIGNMENT FOR NEXT CLASS: Check news magazines for the past 5 years (the more recent, the better!) for current events that interest you and that involved geologic hazards (see textbook chapters 3-10). Make up a list of 5 specific events, with 4 references each (look them up on the web or at the library) on which you might brief the class and turn it in to me.  A typed copy of your assignment is due at the beginning of the next class.