IDAHO GEOLOGY SYLLABUS

 

September:

8                Introduction to Idaho Geology

               15                                     Classroom Research Assignment

22               Boise Foothills  (3188 Sunset Peak Road, Boise)

29             Classroom Research project and report

October:

6                 No class

13              Idaho Museum of Mining & Geology/Tablerock 

            (2455 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise)

20              Classroom assignment

27              Shafer Butte (20 miles north of Boise, on Bogus Basin   

                                            Road)

 

November:

3                                           Classroom Assignment

10              No School (Parent-Teacher Conferences)

17               Boise River (at BSU, 1910 University Drive)

24               No class

 

December:

1                Boise State University 1910 University Drive, Bose)

8                 Classroom assignment

                   Lucky Peak Study area (9725 E. Hwy 21, 10 miles east of Boise

22 & 29     Winter Break

January:

5                 Field Trip (TBA)

12               Classroom assignment

19               Class Final Test

 

Welcome to Treasure Valley Geology!!

 

This class is designed to showcase the Geology of Idaho. During this semester, we will be exploring certain features that make Idaho one of the most geologically interesting and fascinating areas of the world. Through exploration, interactive activities, and field trips, we will explore some of the geologic history of Idaho.

 

We will be taking field trips to the following areas:

·                          Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology/Tablerock Mesa

·                          Lucky Peak area

·                          Boise Foothills

·                          Shafer Butte

·                          Boise River

·                          Boise State University

·                          Celebration Park

 

In addition to these areas, we will also have classroom demonstrations of the wonders of our state.

Several rules and procedures will need to be followed. For each field trip, you will need to bring a sack lunch and a water bottle. We will be taking short hikes as part of our field experience. Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended, as well as a hat. You must wear sturdy shoes, such as tennis shoes or, preferably, hiking boots. No sandals or flip-flops will be allowed to be worn on a field trip. You will be expected to act like mature high school students on the trips. If you choose not to participate in a field trip, an alternative assignment will be given, and graded.

We will be spending class time learning about the upcoming field trips, or working on a follow-up assignment to the field trip.

Grading in the class will be based on participation, and projects based on the field trips. Each field trip earns the student up to 100 points. Each completed project based on the field trips will earn the student 100 points. Points will be calculated on 7-8 field trips, and reports on those trips. Grades will be based on the percentage earned for each assignment. There will also be a final test for this class, as is required by the district.

Hopefully, you will gain an appreciation for the diverse geology of our area, and are inspired to get out and further explore the wonders our state has to offer. I also hope you gain an understanding of why things are the way they are in the surrounding area, and are challenged to learn more. Learning is a lifelong process. Knowledge is power.

 

Let’s all enjoy our chance to learn together.

Thanks, and enjoy the class!

 

John Eric Owens