GLG 262W - Geology of the Canadian Shield

Credits: 1

Studies the geologic and geographic features of the Lake Superior region of Canada. Includes topics such as rock types, origin of landscape features, physical environments, natural resources, and relationships of humans with the environment. Weekend field trip required with students paying their own expenses.

Prerequisite(s): READING LEVEL 2 and WRITING LEVEL 2 and MATH LEVEL 2
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 15 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Natural Science
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives 1. Describe the rocks in the Lake Superior region of Canada and surrounding areas. 1A. List major classes of rock. 1B. Outline the steps involved in the formation of the Lake Superior region. 1C. Describe the rock formations comprising the Canadian Shield. 1D. Classify and identify unknown rocks on the basis of their physical properties. 2. Describe and identify geologic features found on and around Lake Superior. 2A. Describe the glacial features of the Lake Superior region. 2B. Outline the timing and the steps in the formation of greenstones and gneissic rocks. 2C. Describe the timing and the formation of basaltic lavas. 2D. Explain the geological development of granite batholiths. 2E. Describe the timing of faulting in the Lake Superior region. 3. Explain the concept of geologic time. 3A. Contrast relative vs. absolute time. 3B. Describe the geologic developments of the Lake Superior region in the Archean. 3C. Describe the geologic developments of the Lake Superior region in the Proterozoic. 4. Critically assess the evidence for Pleistocene glaciation of the Lake Superior region and its affect on history. 4A. Analyze and describe the relevant evidence for Ice Age lake level changes and isostatic rebound. 4B. Explain the impact of the Pleistocene river deltas on the modern landscape.