GEOS 130
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
Catalog Entry
GEOS 130 Physical Geography (PS)
Three hours lecture (3).
Introduction to the physical geography of the Earth (atmospheric systems, biosphere, and landforms) and the interrelationships among various environmental elements. Students cannot receive credit for both GEOG 100 and GEOG 130.
Detailed Description of Course
This course will introduce students to the physical geography of the Earth. The major topics covered in this course are those considered fundamental to a comprehensive introduction to physical geography. These include:
(1) dimensions of the Earth, latitude and longitude
(2) structure of the atmosphere
(3) global patterns of the major variables determining world climate regions (temperature, pressure, winds, ocean currents, precipitation)
(4) climatic classification (Koeppen system)
(5) introduction to biomes
(6) introduction to landforms
(7) internal processes of landform genesis
(8) weathering and mass movement
(9) fluvial processes and landforms
(10) selected landform regimes, such as coastal, arid lands and/or glacial
Detailed Description of the Conduct of the Course
The course is taught as a lecture with heavy emphasis on graphic representations of global processes and patterns. Exercises involve:
Use of the internet, textbook, maps, and other materials.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Having successfully completed this course the student will be able to:
(1) understand the fundamentals of the dynamic processes which continuously influence change in the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the biosphere, and the surface landforms across the Earth
(2) understand the basic interrelationships among natural processes and distribution patterns of natural phenomena at global scales
Assessment Measures
Assessment of the student’s success in the course is based on the grades from two or more midterm examinations, in-class and homework assignments, and a comprehensive final exam.
Other Course Information
None.
APPROVAL AND SUBSEQUENT REVIEWS
Date Action and Action Approved By
09/09/05 Bernd H. Kuennecke, Chair
February, 2010
