Available in 2024
Course code

GEOS1040

Units

10 units

Level

1000 level

Course handbook

Description

In this course you will learn about the physical processes that shape planet Earth, driving its evolution through time. Through online learning, interactive tutorials, practical laboratories, and field activities you will develop an understanding of Earth’s past and present, and how this will shape its future. You will learn how key processes in the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere interact to drive dynamic cycles that shape the planet’s surface and change the oceans over long and short timescales. Understanding these interactions and cycles is fundamental for predicting how Earth will evolve into the future and developing strategies and technologies to sustain life on a changing planet. This course introduces foundational topics in geology, oceanography, climatology, hydrology, and physical geography including the Critical Zone – where Earth’s spheres meet. The concepts and skills provide a basis for continuing studies in Earth, Climate, Coastal, Marine, Environmental and Spatial Sciences.


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 1 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Explain how the Earth formed and has changed over time;

2. Describe Earth systems including the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere;

3. Identify the drivers of cycles and change on Earth and the links and interactions between these;

4. Collect, critically analyse and interpret field and laboratory data related to Earth systems;

5. Communicate geoscientific information effectively;

6. Contribute as part of a team to achieve tasks and resolve problems


Content

The course examines the evolution and dynamics of planet Earth through the concept of Earth Systems Science, which focusses on interactions between the Earth's spheres. It provides an introduction to key topics of the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere, including:

  • The origins, evolution and materials of planet Earth
  • Earth's dynamic formation of the continents and oceans
  • Atmosphere: precipitation, weather systems and global climate
  • Ocean and coastal processes and dynamics
  • Landscapes, weathering and geomorphology
  • Sediment, soils and biosphere
  • Water cycles, drainage and groundwater
  • The Critical Zone: where Earth's spheres meet
  • Observing and monitoring planet Earth

Assessment items

Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Laboratory assessment tasks

Report: Field trip report

Quiz: Knowledge quizzes


Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Field Study-1
  • Face to Face Off Campus 16 hour(s) per term
  • Two-field days will be held during the semester as part of the practical component.Compulsory Requirement: Induction Requirement - Students must attend and pass the induction requirements before attending these sessions.
  • Compulsory Requirement: Students must meet the compulsory attendance requirement.
Laboratory-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
  • Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 80% of sessions.
Lectorial-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Online Activity-1
  • Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline