Course Title: Field Geology 

Course Code: GEOL-6104:     

Credit Hours: 3

Instructor: Dr. Muhammad Kashif

Email: [email protected]

DESCRIPTION AND OBJECTIVES

This course provides students with an introduction to the geologic history of Pakistan, with particular emphasis on an introduction to both digital and traditional techniques of geological field study. The weather permitting and field exercises provide practical experience in preparation for Field Geology. Field-based observation is an essential skill for understanding the origin of rocks, and is a vital reality-check for understanding how Geological Science is practiced and developed. This course gives students experience with techniques for investigating rocks in their natural habitat, studying the crucial relationships between different units, and developing good habits for observing and recording data in the field.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

This course will enable to develop an advanced knowledge of field mapping techniques, identify, characterize, and develop solution to field base problems: Respond to problems by developing and applying a program to collect, analyze, and organize information and ideas in a coherent manner. Develop interpretation of field data and convey these ideas clearly through the use of map. Analyze data collected in the field using a variety of techniques including steronets, 2-D and 3-D models to develop an understanding of the geological history of an area. Develop the advanced skills to formulate a map with the framework of current best practice.

COURSE CONTENTS

1. Locating yourself on the Map; (Orienting the Map with Respect to your Look-direction, Reading Contours and Topography (at various scales), Using the Brunton Compass for Triangulation, Distance, Height and Pace Approximation).
2. Rapid Collection and Plotting of Planar and Linear Structural Data in the Field, (Strike and Dip, Trend and Plunge, Rake/Pitch, Identifying Bedding or other Features vs. Foliation, Avoiding Float, Up Indicators (Trace Fossils, Sole Marks, x-bedding, Turbs).
3. Effective use of a Field Notebook, (Organization/Clarity, Sketching).
4. Working with Rocks, (Hammer, Hand Lens, Magnet, Acid, etc., Classification Schemes for Different Rocks (Mineralogical, Genetic, Textural,...).
5. Creating and Working with Geologic Maps, (Measuring Unit Thickness off a Map, How to Deal with Covered Sections or Regions Outside the Field Area, Recognizing Lateral and Temporal Classification of Formations that have Huge Lateral Extent...How to Differentiate, Contacts (Faults, Unconformity), Creating Cross Sections on Maps).

READINGS

1. Passchier, C. W., Myers, J. S., & Kröner, A. (2012). Field geology of high-grade gneiss terrains. Springer Science & Business Media.
2. Singh, G. (2009). Map Work And Practical Geography, 4E. Vikas Publishing House Pvt Ltd.
3. Nichols, G. (2009). Sedimentology and stratigraphy. John Wiley & Sons.

       4. Lahee, F. H. (1923). Field geology. McGraw-Hill Book Company, Incorporated.

        5. Selected Research Papers.                                                  

  ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Sessional: 20 (Practical+ Presentation + Assignments)

Midterm exam: 30

Final exam: 50

Total: 100

• 75 % attendance is must for the students to appear in exam of Midterm and final