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GEOLOGY 303 SECTION 001 - FIELD MAPPING TECHNIQUES
FALL 2011

http://mason.gmu.edu/~jnord/geol303/

IMPORTANT - ALL STUDENTS NEED TO READ THIS

• The objective of this course is to enable you to make field measurements efficiently, assess the precision and accuracy of these measurements, and convert these data into a map.
  
  
• Projects are due as designated. If submitted late, your grade will be reduced by one point for each day after the due time.
  
  
• Projects that receive a low grade may be repeated, and re-submitted . If this is done, they will be re-graded, however, the maximum possible score for repeated labs will be half the difference between the original grade and the maximum possible grade. Original graded work must be re-submitted with the repeated work.
  
  
• For each exercise, please hand-in the following:
  
  • A readable xerox copy of your field notes (do NOT prepare a separate copy of your data)
  • Your field map
  • A final, drafted copy of the project - if requested
  • An analysis of the precision and accuracy of your results, and the sources of error inherent in this type of mapping
  
  
  
• Projects will be graded on the basis of completeness, accuracy, error analysis, and final presentation.
  
  
  
• Necessary Field Equipment
  • Field Notebook (waterproof)
  • Pencils, hardness of at least 2
  • Waterproof, thin ink pen
  • Protractor
  • Graph paper (10/inch * 10/ inch)
  • Clipboard with Cover
  • Engineers Rule (inches) needs to be graduated in 10th, 20ths, 30ths, 40ths, 50ths, and 60ths.
  • Calculator (with Trig Functions)
  
  • Field Boots or Sturdy Shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Hat
  • Bug repellent
  • Rain Gear - a Poncho is best
  • Snacks
  
  
  
• You are personally responsible for any equipment checked out in your name. Please treat the equipment as if it were your own. Final grades will not be assigned to anyone who has not returned all field equipment.
  
  
• When working in the field, please try to adhere to the following:
  
  1. COME PREPARED.
Have the proper equipment , and be sure it is in proper working order. Know beforehand what you are supposed to accomplish, and be familiar with the techniques and equipment involved.
  
  2. WORK SAFELY.
Never work alone, especially in rugged terrain. Always tell someone where you will be, just in case you don't return. Wear proper field clothes. Always keep your wits about you. Remember to drink plenty of fluids and eat!
  
  3. WORK EFFICIENTLY AND BUDGET YOUR TIME.
Develop a way to do your fieldwork in a comfortable, but efficient manner. Keep in mind there is a limited amount of time in which to complete the project. Leave enough time after fieldwork to prepare the report.
  
  4. PLOT YOUR RESULTS IN THE FIELD.
Get in the habit of collecting data, calculating, compiling, and plotting results while at the field site. This is the most important way to check your work for accuracy. This may save you from making unnecessary trips back to the field.