GPHY 111NL - Introduction to Physical Geography

Credit(s): 4

This course introduces physical earth systems - meteorology, soils, vegetation types and distribution, oceanography, landforms. Focus is on the use of geographic tools and analysis to understand spatial relationships of physical and biological phenomena on Earth, and how these relationships affect humans. (Fall Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Identify the major parts of the Earth system and the relationships between them.
Determine geographic grid coordinates using latitude and longitude.
Interpret and use topographic and weather maps.
Identify the path of the Sun in relation to latitude and the time of the year.
Recognize descriptions of the four major divisions of the atmosphere, including how it changes with altitude.
Explain the relationship between solar energy, the atmosphere, and the seasons.
Identify large scale and local factors that affect air temperature, what causes variations in air pressure, and how this affects the weather.
Recognize factors that control wind speed and direction.
Identify cloud types and atmospheric disturbances, their formation, and evolution.
Discuss the earth’s climate system, how it is classified, and how climates vary spatially.
Describe the effects of wind, water, and ice on Earth’s surface.
Identify basic landforms produced by wind, water, and ice.
Apply scientific concepts and methods of inquiry.