Geological Studies   

Geology is the most exciting and hands-on of the sciences.  It is the study of a dynamic Earth that is changing on a daily basis due to tectonic activity, volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, meteorite strikes, tsunami and more. This course is an "Introduction to Geology" and it outlines the formation of the Earth in context of the formation of the Universe and Solar System.  It examines the history of the Earth and of the Moon and its formation.  This is followed by an examination of the properties of the Earth, its dynamic activities, its rocks and minerals and fossils and the uses of rocks and minerals.  The course closes with an examination of the careers that are associated with Geology. No Textbook Required.

Mineralogy is the study of the crystals that comprise rocks. This course studies minerals. It is a course that allows the student to become very knowledgeable about minerals and to enjoy their beauty. The course begins by explaining what minerals are, their composition and their classification. The concept of mineral formation is followed by the use of descriptive and identifying properties. The student is introduced to the use of a ‘key’. After having learned how to identify important minerals, the student will be introduced to some of the fascinating minerals on Earth: gemstones, ore minerals and essential minerals. The course concludes by examining various mineral collecting sites of the world. No textbook required.

Software Required: PowerPoint. 

This course studies the events, the causes and the effects of some of the world's greatest geological natural disasters. The course examines disasters associated with earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, weather, hurricanes, floods, fires, extinctions and impacts from space. Each type of disaster contains a geologic or scientific component. The disasters are examined in terms of their geologic or scientific origins, their locations, their effects and impact on human lives and settlements. Advice is given as to how best to prepare for and defend yourself against these disasters. Textbook Required.