Please Note: This Course Syllabus is an important step in updating the format of our distance courses. If for any reason the Class Syllabus does not match the print Course Guide or online class information, the Class Syllabus shall be taken as correct. CLASS SYLLABUS COURSE TITLE: Introduction to Global Environmental Systems COURSE CODE: GEOG 120 TERM: Spring 2015 COURSE CREDITS: 3 DELIVERY: Online COURSE SECTION: W03 START DATE: May 6, 2015 END DATE: June 19, 2015 Course Description This course is an introduction to the principles, processes and interactions in the Earth's physical environment with a particular emphasis on the flow of energy and matter within global environmental systems. Topics include global radiation and energy balances, atmospheric and oceanic processes, the hydrologic cycle, earth surface processes and biogeochemical cycling. Case studies are introduced to illustrate the interaction between human activity and the natural environment. Note: A background in high school sciences at the 30-level is recommended. GEOG 120 is acceptable under requirement one of program type C. Course Objectives By the end of this course, students should be able to: 1. Discuss the current foundation of understanding about Earth s systems, their components and interactive processes; 2. Describe the origin and dynamics of Earth s physical features; 3. Explain observable spatial and temporal patterns; 4. Demonstrate essential knowledge and skills which would facilitate further studies in Geography and related Earth / environmental sciences. Course Overview This course is a study of the important elements of the global environment, emphasizing interactions among 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. April 2, 2015 gm ck pk rj bw Geography and Planning Page 1 of 9
Your Instructors Co-instructors: Rod Johnson and Bert Weichel Department of Geography and Planning, University of Saskatchewan Bert Weichel Rod Johnson Rod and Bert co-instruct Geography 120.3 and were the content developers for this course. Both have completed Master degrees in the field of biogeography from the University of Saskatchewan. They teach physical geography classes both on and off-campus and lecture in introductory environmental studies. In addition to their teaching roles, Rod and Bert work extensively in the areas of ecological research and environmental management and are active in the resource conservation and environmental awareness movement. Contact Information Office: Kirk Hall 102 Tel. (306) 966-8845 Class Website on Blackboard: https://bblearn.usask.ca/ Email: via the Email tool (see tabs in the Course Menu) in Blackboard Office Hours Specific times are not scheduled. Emails are monitored during weekdays. Appointment request for meetings (in person or by phone) with an instructor should be submitted by an email, within Blackboard, addressed to Section Instructors. Important Course Communication and Protocols We will be making use of two of the communication tools provided within Blackboard: Discussion forums and Email. While Discussion postings are public (can be seen by all class members), an email is directed at one or more specified recipients. Please be sure to adhere to the following protocol when communicating with your instructors: Use email only for questions or information related to your own involvement in the course. Questions, comments or messages related to the course material, such as module content, lab exercises etc., should be submitted as message postings in the appropriate Discussions forum so that all students can benefit from the information; Page 2 of 8
To initiate an email message within Blackboard, select All Instructor Users as the recipients. This is essential to enable both instructors to remain current on all issues, and will also facilitate shorter reply times. We endeavor to check for student emails at least once each weekday, and to respond within 36-48 hours; Include in the subject line of every email the class name and the basic nature of your message or question. (For example, Geog 120: Explanation for recent absence.) Blank subject line email is often deleted. Also be sure to include your full name at the end of your email; Please refrain from using email to ask for information that is already provided in the course content pages; Practice proper email etiquette and write in a concise and grammatically correct manner. Required Resources Readings/Textbooks The following required textbook may be acquired in two formats: as a hardcover print copy, or as an e-book. Either format can be ordered from the University of Saskatchewan Bookstore or online from the publisher: Strahler, Alan H. and Archibold, O. W. (2011). Physical Geography: Science & Systems of the Human Environment. Fifth Canadian Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. ISBN: 978-0-470-67885-5 (hard copy) Textbooks are available from the University of Saskatchewan Bookstore: http://www.usask.ca/consumer_services/bookstore/textbooks N.B.: Although earlier editions of the required textbook are still relatively available, their use is not recommended as they may result in difficulty correlating chapter, section or page number references. Other Required Materials Students will experience and utilize an array of information sources and tools in an approach called technology-enhanced learning. In addition to the class website, this includes a textbook publisher s companion website, online course materials, narrated lecture files, other supplementary resources, plus a set of required self-directed laboratory exercises. 1. Access to/use of a Computer Stable internet access is essential to satisfactory interaction with the course materials. To complete the series of laboratory exercises, you will need access to, and the ability to effectively use, common computer hardware and software. The Midterm Exam and required Lab Exercise tests are done online in Blackboard and therefore require a stable Internet connection for the duration of each test. 2. Understanding of Mathematics and Graphing Some tasks in the set of lab exercises require competence in mathematics, basic descriptive statistics and the use of graphs to depict quantitative information. The labs involve a variety of formulas, algebraic equations and basic trigonometry. An ability to solve for variables and work with exponents is expected. There are also tasks involving the calculation of a number of descriptive statistics such as the mean, range and standard deviation. You should be Page 3 of 8
familiar with proper techniques for display of information in tables as well as in line, pie and bar graphs. 3. A scientific calculator (with statistical and trigonometric functions) and geometry set (with adequate tools for accurate measuring and drawing of lines, shapes and angles) Module Objectives Module 1: Introduction and Geographic Essentials 1. Define what geography is, identify fields of study within the discipline, and provide examples of some applications of geographic methodology and knowledge. 2. Describe the Planet s form and the characteristics of the major physical realms. 3. Explain the Systems concept and its role in understanding Earth s environment. 4. Describe Earth s motions and the consequences in terms of illumination patterns. 5. Describe the geographic grid and its use in referencing location, direction and time. Module 2: Tools and Methodology in Geographic Study 1. Define and provide examples for the phrase spatial data. 2. Describe how to obtain and communicate geographic information. 3. Be able to apply the basics of maps and map scale. 4. Define map projection and identify some common types. 5. Define remote sensing and explain how and why it is carried out. 6. Identify what Geographic Information Systems are and give examples of how they are used. Module 3: The Atmosphere and Global Energy System 1. Describe the composition and physical characteristics of the atmosphere. 2. Explain the nature of radiation and its interactions with the atmosphere and surface. 3. Describe flows and distributions within the global energy system. 4. Outline how heating and cooling occurs and identify the main factors controlling air temperature patterns. 5. Explain daily and annual cycles of air temperature near the surface. 6. Describe general global air temperature patterns. Module 4: Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulation 1. Explain why and how atmospheric pressure changes. 2. Identify the connection between pressure, winds, and vertical motions of air. 3. Explain the factors affecting surface and upper level wind direction. 4. Describe the general circulation model of the atmosphere. 5. Explain the relationship between winds and ocean surface currents. 6. Discuss the role of atmospheric and oceanic circulations in global heat transport. Module 5: Weather Development and Atmosphere Dynamics 1. Describe the distribution of water in the hydrosphere and movement of water through the hydrological cycle. 2. Define atmospheric humidity and the effects of phase change. 3. Explain the major processes that generate precipitation. 4. Explain the origin and characteristics of air masses and intense weather systems. Page 4 of 8
Module 6: Global Climates 1. Distinguish between meteorology and climatology. 2. Identify the main factors controlling elements of climate. 3. Explain the water balance concept in relation to climate. 4. Describe how climates are classified. 5. Identify variables and patterns in temperature regimes and precipitation distribution. 6. Describe the general pattern of climatic regions and types. 7. Recognize and outline processes associated with Global Climate Change. Module 7: Earth Crust Dynamics and the Rock Cycle 1. Position major Earth events in historical sequence (geologic time). 2. Describe the cycle of rock transformation and define the major rock types. 3. Explain how the lithospheric plates move and the consequences of their interactions. 4. Describe the processes of rock weathering. 5. Define mass wasting and describe the main processes involved. 6. Explain what Karst landscapes are and how they evolve. Module 8: Water as a Geomorphic Agent 1. Describe the main aspects of ground water and overland runoff. 2. Explain the basics of stream flow and flooding. 3. Discuss how fluvial erosion and deposition occur. 4. Describe typical landforms created by fluvial processes. Module 9: Wind as a Geomorphic Agent 1. Explain how wind causes erosion and deposition of sediment. 2. Describe typical features of aeolian geomorphology. 3. Explain the processes of wave action on coastlines. 4. Identify and describe common coastal features. Module 10: Ice as a Geomorphic Agent 1. Describe the processes and features of frost-controlled landscapes. 2. Explain how alpine and continental glaciers form and move. 3. Describe glacial erosion and deposition processes. 4. Describe typical features found in glaciated landscapes. 5. Outline the global conditions associated with the Late-Cenozoic Ice Age. Module 11: Biosphere Essentials 1. Define basic ecological terms related to energy flows and material cycles. 2. Explain the food web and ecological pyramid concepts. 3. Describe the relationship between patterns of climate and primary productivity. 4. Explain the formation processes and properties of soils. 5. Describe the general pattern of global soils. Module 12: Biogeography 1. Describe environmental factors influencing the distribution of organisms. 2. Explain the concept of ecological succession. 3. Identify the major global biomes and describe their general distribution. Page 5 of 8
Class Schedule Week Module Reading Labs Exams May 6-9 Review materials on Blackboard, the Course Syllabus, and peruse the textbook May 10 Module 1: Introduction and Geographic Essentials Module 2: Tools / Methodology in Geographic Study Chapter 1 Ch. 2 Lab 1 Lab. 2 May 17 Module 3: The Atmosphere / Global Energy System Module 4: Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulation Ch. 3, 4 Ch. 5 Lab. 3 Lab Test 1 Sat., May 23 May 24 Module 5: Weather Development / Atmosphere Dynamics Module 6: Global Climates Ch. 6, 7 Ch. 8-10 Lab. 4 Midterm Exam Sat., May 30 May 28, 29 Two day Midterm Break May 31 Module 7: Earth crust dynamics and the Rock Cycle Module 8: Water: as a Geomorphic Agent Ch. 11-14 Ch. 15,16 Lab. 6 Lab Test 2 Sat., June 6 June 7 Module 9: Wind as Geomorphic Agent Module 10: Ice as Geomorphic Agent Ch. 17 Ch. 18 Lab. 7 Lab Test 3 Sat., June 13 June 14 Module 11: Biosphere Essentials Module 12: Vegetation Structure and Dynamics Ch. 19, 20 Ch. 21, 22 Final Exam June 22, 2015 (9:00 a.m.) Note: If for any reason the Class Syllabus Reading List does not match the Module Reading List, the Class Syllabus shall be taken as correct. Grading Scheme Laboratory Exercise Tests (3) 30% Midterm Examination 30% Final Examination 40% Total 100% Information on literal descriptors for grading at the University of Saskatchewan can be found at: http://students.usask.ca/current/academics/grades/grading-system.php Page 6 of 8
Please note: There are different literal descriptors for undergraduate and graduate students. More information on the Academic Courses Policy on course delivery, examinations and assessment of student learning can be found at: http://policies.usask.ca/policies/academicaffairs/academic-courses.php The University of Saskatchewan Learning Charter is intended to define aspirations about the learning experience that the University aims to provide, and the roles to be played in realizing these aspirations by students, instructors and the institution. A copy of the Learning Charter can be found at: http://policies.usask.ca/documents/learningcharter.pdf Evaluation Components In this course you ll be evaluated by a midterm exam, a final exam, and laboratory tests which are based on your comprehension of a set of six (6) required exercises. Note: All components of the course must be attempted and completed in order to be eligible for a passing grade (a minimum of 50%). Laboratory Exercises and Tests: Value: 30% of final grade Due Dates: see Class Schedule for the dates of the three required online Lab Tests. Purpose: To test comprehension and skills related to completion of the lab exercises. Description: The lab tests account for 30% of the overall grade although, in addition, some questions relating directly to the content of the lab exercises may also be included in the course midterm and final exams. Exercise 1: Geographic Essentials 1 Exercise 2: Geographic Essentials 2 Exercise 3: Exercise 4: Exercise 6: Exercise 7: Weather / Temperature Weather / Moisture Structure / Lithosphere Process Geomorphology The lab exercises are not submitted for grading. Working through the exercises yourself is the only effective way to prepare for the lab tests. The process is designed to be largely selfdirected and includes answer keys, help files and review guides. Because you are reviewing the exercises on your own in preparation for the lab tests, you may also contact your instructors if you have any difficulty with the exercises. Note: You will be completing your lab tests online (using Blackboard). The schedule for the labs and lab tests is listed in the Course Schedule in this Course Syllabus. Lab tests are up to one hour in length, online and open book but, must be individually completed. Calculators and lab materials are also allowed. Midterm Examination: Value: 30% of final grade Date: Saturday, May 30, 2015 Purpose: To test comprehension of material in the first six modules. Description: The midterm examination is one hour, online and open book. Page 7 of 8
Final Examination: Value: 40% of final grade Date: Monday, June 22, 2015. Purpose: A comprehensive examination on all of the material covered in all modules. The best preparation for the exam consists of reviewing the content of each module. If you can comfortably perform the Learning Objectives, explain the Key Concepts, and complete the Self- Study Exercises, you can do well on the final examination. Description: An invigilated, closed-book, three-hour examination. You are allowed to bring a simple (non-programmable) calculator. No other electronic devices are allowed in the examination room such as: mobile phones, ipods/mp3s or portable computers of any kind. The day and time of your final examination will be listed in your PAWS account. The location listed in PAWS for your exam is the Saskatoon location. If you want to write your final exam outside Saskatoon, you must complete an Application for Final Examination form, available at: https://ccde.usask.ca/exam-info This will let us know where you would like to write your exam. Students writing in Saskatoon do not need to complete this form. Additional Information Students with Disabilities If you have a diagnosed disability (learning, medical, physical, or mental health), you are strongly encouraged to register with Disability Services for Students (DSS). In order to access DSS programs and supports, you must follow DSS policy and procedures. If you suspect you may have a disability, contact DSS for advice and referrals. For more information, see http://www.students.usask.ca/disability/ or contact DSS at 306-966-7273 or dss@usask.ca. Integrity Defined Integrity is expected of all students in their academic work class participation, examinations, assignments, research, practica and in their non-academic interactions and activities as well. (Office of the University Secretary) It is your responsibility to be familiar with the University of Saskatchewan policies and procedures. More information is available at www.usask.ca/university_secretary/pdf/dishonesty_info_sheet.pdf Acknowledgements Course Author(s) Rod Johnson and Bert Weichel Department of Geography and Planning, University of Saskatchewan Page 8 of 8