Program Guide - Department of Human Resources, Labour and ...

IS 3212
Geology
1. Rocks and Minerals
1.1 Define mineral.
1.2 Determine physical properties of minerals such as colour, streak, hardness, lustre,
cleavage, specific gravity, fracture, and crystal form.
1.3 Classify mineral samples as belonging to silicates, oxides, sulfides, carbonates,
sulfates, or phosphates.
1.4 List at least ten minerals and describe use of each mineral.
1.5 Describe how sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks are formed.
1.6 Explain how rocks are continuously being recycled.
1.7 Describe rock samples considering rock fabric (size, shape, and distribution of
mineral grains), hardness, texture, rock structures (e.g., foliations, bedding), and
field occurrences.
1.8 Explain the following methods of mineral exploration: geological, geophysical,
geochemical, remote sensing, and diamond drilling.
2. Weathering and Erosion
2.1 Distinguish between weathering and erosion.
2.2 Distinguish between physical and chemical weathering.
2.3 Describe effects of weathering on buildings and landscapes.
2.4 Describe sources of acid rain pollution, including industrial, domestic, and natural
sources.
2.5 Explain formation of different soils through weathering action.
2.6 Describe effects of human development and mismanagement on the surface of
the earth.
3. Plate Tectonics
3.1 Describe plate tectonics theory.
3.2 Explain effects of divergent plate margins.
3.3 Describe landforms, rock types, and a divergent plate margins.
3.4 Describe landforms, rock types, and a convergent plate margins.
3.5 Explain the following as they relate to plate tectonics: mountain belts, ocean
trenches, ocean ridges, island arcs, hot spots, and subduction zones.
3.6 Outline evidence supporting movement of plates.
3.7 Describe cause of geologic plate movement.
3.8 Explain how earthquakes and volcanoes are associated with development of
landforms.
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ABE Level III Curriculum