Course Overview
Earth Science and Soils is an introduction to landform interpretation and soil science. Topics include the geologic cycle; rocks; landforms; soil and surficial materials classifications; soil formation; physical, chemical and biological properties of soils; forest humus; erosion; interpreting soil and terrain maps; soil mapping; soil sampling; land use impacts on soils and watersheds. This course will be taught with a blended approach of synchronous and asynchronous delivery to enhance student learning. There will be a mix of field, lab, classroom and online teaching and learning.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
4.5
- Retired
- This course has been retired and is no longer offered. Find other Flexible Learning courses that may interest you.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Carry out field description of soils for various applications (e.g., agriculture, silviculture and engineering) and in a variety of ecosystems.
- Describe dominant factors and processes involved in soil formation.
- Demonstrate soil sampling, handling methods and basic soil analyses (pH, bulk density, particle size analysis).
- Discuss soil fertility, nutrient cycling and their importance to plant growth.
- Classify organic forest floor horizons using the Forest Humus Classification System.
- Discuss soil classification in a geographic and ecological context.
- Describe the structure of the Canadian System of Soil Classification (CSSC), including the applicability of its various levels to soil science and to natural resource management.
- Describe the structure of the Unified Soil Classification system.
- Recognize and compare 4 types of rocks including 3 specific examples of each type.
- Identify common, important landforms found in British Columbia using aerial photos and site characteristics.
Effective as of Fall 2018
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.