Universidad de Jaén

I. INTRODUCTION. Geology concept. Methodology. A brief history of the development of the Geology knowledge. The Geologic Sciences. The rock cycle. II. EARTH'S INTERIOR PROCESSES. Magmatism and igneous rocks. Metamorphism and metamorphic rocks. Rock deformation. III. EARTH STRUCTURE, COMPOSITION and PLATE TECTONICS. GLOBAL DYNAMIC. IV. MINERALS. Basic concepts. Mineral classifications. Features and properties of the main mineral groups. Mineral stability.

 Exercises (mineral formulae, phase stability, Streckeisen diagram, cartography of tectonic plate boundaries).

Specific activities: Conceptual tests and reading of scientific texts related with the topic. PRACTICAL SESSIONS: Identification of minerals and rocks (hand specimen)  - Field practices.

Lectures (3.2 ECTS): The aims of these sessions are the acquisition of (1) a basic knowledge of Geology, (2) the capacity for applying the geologic knowledge to the knowledge of the environment and (3) the capacity of applying the theoretical knowledge to practice. These classes include exercises and specific activities as the reading of scientist documents.

Practical sessions (2.6 ECTS): These sessions are dedicated to the identification of minerals and rocks in hand specimen, using physical properties. These sessions (5 of 2 hours each) are developed in small groups of students (no more than 20). 3 field practices in order to contribute to the acquisition of the contents of the subject by identifying rocks, minerals and geological structures in the field.

Students with special educational needs should contact the Student Attention Service (Servicio de Atención y Ayudas al Estudiante) in order to receive the appropriate academic support

30% from practical exam based on the lab sessions (identification of minerals and rocks) and field days, 50% from the final theory exam and 20% from tests and readings. Mandatory: the three  field days and essential the attendance to the lab sessions and lectures.