Macalester College Geology Department

Instructor: Ray Rogers or Kelly MacGregor
Level: Introductory
Offered: Every Spring, occasionally as First Year

History and Evolution of the Earth provides an overview of Earth history that spans ~4.5 billion years. Students in the class explore the concept of geologic time as they delve into the vast past of our evolving planet. Major emphasis is placed on tracking the evolution of life, from the simplest single-celled organisms of the ancient Earth to today's diverse floras and faunas. Another major focus of the course is the linkage and various feedbacks among abiotic and biotic systems—the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere did not and do not evolve independently. The laboratory component of this course is designed to familiarize students with the rocks and fossils that archive the history of Earth. The class includes field trips to local areas of geologic and paleontologic interest. This course is required for geology majors and minors. No prerequisites.

Major Topics of Study Include:

• Evolution and the history of life
• Plate tectonics and mountain building
• Description and interpretation of rocks and fossils
• Methods of reconstructing ancient environments and climates