If you do well in this course, you will be able to:
discuss theories of formation of Earth, the Moon, and other worlds in our Solar System.
describe the origins of Earth’s internal structure, crust and crustal processes, atmosphere, and oceans.
trace the events leading to the origins of life and distinguish between their forms.
explain the formation of continental crust and the tectonic processes that modify it.
explain the growth and movement of continents and the cycle of supercontinent formation and dispersal.
describe and date the formation and breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea.
distinguish between common types of fossilization, including the origins of fossil fuels.
describe the traits of major groups of Phanerozoic multicellular life.
explain the basic concepts in macroevolution and relate evidence from the fossil record to them.
describe the patterns and extremes of climate change in Earth’s past.