GEOG 101 Introduction to Physical Geography
Course Information
| Course Number | GEOG 101 |
|---|---|
| Course Title | Introduction to Physical Geography |
| Description | This course is an introduction to physical geography that systematically examines the spatial patterns and interrelationships among physical elements at the earth's surface. Students will study the earth's physical environment, its systems, and the physical processes that drive them through study of weather, climate, natural vegetation, soil, and landforms. However, these topics are not just discussed independently since the course concentrates on understanding the integration of these areas of the natural world. Geography focuses on human activities, and so the course will highlight some of the basic interactions between human activity and the natural environment. Current issues will be discussed and a scientific foundation provided for understanding global warming and other critical environmental issues. (Prerequisites: Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score 250+ OR Classic Accuplacer Reading score 77+ OR MCA Reading score 1046+ OR ACT Reading 21+ OR completion of one of the following courses with a grade of C, 2.0, or higher: READ 0099, ENGL 0099, or ENGL 100 [or equivalent].) (MNTC 3 & 10) |
| Total Credits | 3 |
| Total Hours | 64 |
| Instruction Type | Credits and Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 Credits, 43 Hours |
| Lab | 1 Credit, 21 Hours |
Pre/Corequisites
Prerequisite: Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score 250+ OR Classic Accuplacer Reading score 77+ OR MCA Reading score 1046+ OR ACT Reading 21+ OR completion of one of the following courses with a grade of C, 2.0, or higher: READ 0099, ENGL 0099, or ENGL 100 [or equivalent].
Institutional Core Competencies
- Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility - Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to engage in the social responsibilities expected of a community member.
- Critical and Creative Thinking - Students will be able to demonstrate purposeful thinking with the goal of using a creative process for developing and building upon ideas and/or the goal of using a critical process for the analyzing and evaluating of ideas.
Course Competencies
- Demonstrate the tools geographers use in physical geography.
- Define the Earth's global energy balance.
- Describe how surface and air temperature impacts local environments.
- Explain the types of atmospheric moisture and precipitation.
- Distinguish between weather systems and global climate systems.
- Identify the materials that make up the Earth and outline plate tectonics processes.
- Comprehend the impacts of volcanic and tectonic landforms.
- Explain the progression of weathering and mass wasting on the Earth's surface.
- Show awareness of fresh water sources and how it is a scarce resource.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how landforms are made by running water, waves, wind, and ice.
SCC Accessibility Statement
South Central College strives to make all learning experiences as accessible as possible. If you have a disability and need accommodations for access to this class, contact the Academic Support Center to request and discuss accommodations.
North Mankato: Room B-132, (507) 389-7222; Faribault: Room A-116, (507) 332-7222.
Additional information and forms can be found at: southcentral.edu/disability
This material can be made available in alternative formats by contacting the Academic Support Center at 507-389-7222.