GEOL240-12S1 (C) Semester One 2012

Field Studies A - Mapping

15 points

Details:
Start Date: Monday, 20 February 2012
End Date: Sunday, 24 June 2012
Withdrawal Dates
Last Day to withdraw from this course:
  • Without financial penalty (full fee refund): Sunday, 4 March 2012
  • Without academic penalty (including no fee refund): Sunday, 20 May 2012

Description

Geological mapping involves the observation, recording, presentation and interpretation of field data, all fundamental skills required by practising geologists. Students enrolling in GEOL240 will complete laboratory classes and prepare a geologic map, cross-section, and written report for the Island Hills area of North Canterbury based on field data collected on a fieldtrip held during semester break.

Learning Outcomes

  • Students successfully completing this course will:
  • be able to observe, record and interpret a wide variety of geological phenomena in the field.
  • be able to systematically record outcrop data, measure basic structural and stratigraphic information.
  • be competent to carry out independent mapping and/or field data recording in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary terrain.
  • be able to use aerial photography and contour maps as an aid to field mapping
  • be able to interpret history and extract geological information from geological maps
  • have gained experience orienteering using a map and compass.

    The primary goal of GEOL240 is to provide students with training in basic geological mapping and map reading techniques and procedures. The topics coved by this course are:
  • Rock & Mineral Identification
  • Orienteering in the Field
  • Strike & Dip Measurement
  • Geological Map Reading
  • Geological Map Preparation
  • Geological Cross-Section Preparation
  • Interpretation of Geological Field Data
  • Interpretation of Geological Maps

Prerequisites

GEOL111 and GEOL112, or, with a B+ average, or
a standard acceptable to the Head of Department, GEOL113 may be substituted for GEOL111 or 112.

Restrictions

GEOL230

Co-requisites

15 points from any of GEOL242-245 offered in the same semester

Timetable Note

Lectures:
There are no lecture classes for GEOL 240.
Laboratories: -1 lab (2.5 hours) per week – schedule to be advised.
Specific field trip dates will vary from year-to-year pending enrolments and the UC Calendar.

Course Coordinator

For further information see Geological Sciences Head of Department

Assessment

Assessment Due Date Percentage  Description
Fieldwork - Exercise #1 20% One-day mapping exercise
Fieldwork - Exercise #2 60% Five-day mapping exercise
Laboratory examination 20% Laboratory examination


There is no final examination for this course.

Textbooks / Resources

There are no required textbooks for GEOL240. However, students are strongly encouraged to read the books listed to assist in their learning.

Course links

Library portal

Notes

Additional Course Fees
Optional catering (breakfast, packed lunch and dinner) will be available at a cost of $15 per day.

Essential Equipment
Field equipment required for the course includes a geological hammer, safety glasses, grain size comparator and hand lens, all of which can be purchased from the Department. In addition a waterproof field note-book, hard (2H) pencil and sharpener, ruler, protractor, and coloured pencils will be required. Students should also carry their own first aid kit in the field and have adequate supplies of any medicines required for known medical conditions, including allergies. We will stay in shearer’s quarters, so you will need a sleeping bag, pillow, towel(s) and eating utensils. Conditions in the field will vary, so you must come prepared for variable weather conditions ranging from hot and sunny to cold and wet. Strong boots, a waterproof parka, a hat and a change of clothes are essential. Bring sunscreen lotion, a day pack and drink bottle(s). You must complete a field safety form before leaving on the field trip.

Geological equipment can be purchased from the Department (Rm 101D Von Haast).  (See order form provided in the first course laboratory meeting.)

Additional Course Outline Information

Academic integrity

Geological mapping involves the observation, recording, presentation and interpretation of field data, all fundamental skills required by practising geologists. Students enrolling in GEOL240 will prepare a geologic map, cross-section, and written report for the Island Hills area of North Canterbury based on field data collected during a 5-day fieldtrip held during semester break. Laboratory exercises will introduce fundamental field techniques and geological map reading skills.  A compulsory one-day weekend field trip during Term 1 will introduce basic outcrop procedures and serve as a introductory geological mapping exercise prior to the main semester break trip to Island Hills.

Indicative Fees

Domestic fee $718.00

International fee $3,350.00

* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.

Minimum enrolments

This course will not be offered if fewer than 30 people apply to enrol.

For further information see Geological Sciences .

All GEOL240 Occurrences

  • GEOL240-12S1 (C) Semester One 2012