FYS 1: Life on the Edge: How Geology Shapes Our Lives in Los Angeles and Environs (4 units)
Prof. Ann Blythe (FYS 1-1): MWF 1:20-2:15 + F 2:25-3:20
Prof. Nikki Seymour (FYS 1-2): MWF 1:20-2:15 + F 2:25-3:20
Geologic and environmental issues shape everyday life in Southern California鈥攔ight under your feet! This course invites you to connect science to society, classroom learning to real landscapes, and big ideas to your own life in California. Through integration with GEO 105, this FYS will build on key geologic concepts through lively discussions, thought-provoking readings, and three engaging writing assignments designed to sharpen your critical thinking. You will tackle big, timely questions: How prepared are we for earthquakes, especially the 鈥淏ig One鈥? How has water scarcity shaped California鈥檚 growth and identity? Where does our energy come from鈥攁nd what would it take to build a more sustainable future? We will experience in-class concepts first-hand with a two-day field trip to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, an outstanding example of the region鈥檚 dramatic geology and desert environment.
GEO 105: Earth: Our Environment (4 units)
Profs. Ann Blythe and Lydia Harmon: TBA
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Prof. Ann Blythe's Lab TBA OR Prof. Nikki Seymour's Lab TBA
This course will explore the physical processes that shape the environment on the Earth's surface. The course will cover the fundamentals of plate tectonics, rocks, minerals, geologic time, surface processes, and Earth's interior. Special attention will be paid to geologic hazards (such as earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, and landslides), the history and future of global climate change, and the human impact on the environment.