C-ID Descriptor
Introduction to Physical Geography

None

Elementary Algebra

1. The size, shape, and movements of the Earth in space and their importance to environmental patterns and processes;
2. The atmospheric, geomorphological, and biotic processes that shape the Earth’s surface environments;
3. The global distribution of the world’s major climates, ecosystems, physiographic (landform) features;
4. The basic tools of geographic inquiry; and
5. Basic concepts of physical geography in the analysis of real-world variations in environmental patterns.

At the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the size, shape, and movements of the Earth in space and their importance to environmental patterns and processes;
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the atmospheric, geomorphological, and biotic processes that shape the Earth’s surface environments;
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the global distribution of the world’s major climates, ecosystems, and physiographic (landform) features;
4. Demonstrate an understanding of basic concepts of physical geography in the analysis of real-world variations in environmental patterns; and
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method and practical experience using the tools and concepts of physical geography (laboratory component).

Objective and subjective midterm and final examinations. Written assignments, projects, and/or homework problems.

Geosystems (Christopherson)
Physical Geography (Hess)
Visualizing Physical Geography (Strahler)

Or other college level text as selected by the instructor