Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - EASC 206 D100

Field Geology I (3)

Class Number: 1317

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    EASC 101 with a minimum grade of C- or better. Corequisite: EASC 106.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to field methods and technological applications used to navigate, systematically observe, characterize, record, and interpret geologic features and events. Includes one or two mandatory weekend field trips as well as several local field trips.

COURSE DETAILS:

General:
Students will learn basic field methods such as taking notes, reading maps, characterizing exposures of rocks and sediments, interpreting textures and structures, and field safety.

Course Organization:
1 two-hour lecture and one 3-hour laboratory per week.

There will be one or two weekend field trips involving camping in Merritt, as well as several local field trips on the same day as lecture or lab. Attendance at all field exercises is mandatory. A course specific supplementary fee will be assessed.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Navigate in the field using a topographic map, compass, pacing, and GPS
  • Identify, classify, and describe the composition, texture, and primary structures of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, and sediments
  • Understand the significance of composition, texture and primary structures as indicators of the conditions and environment of rock formation or environment of deposition
  • Identify and record the attitude of secondary (tectonic) structures such as faults, joints, folds, cleavages, foliations, lineations, and shear zones
  • Use a Brunton compass to measure planar and linear geologic features (e.g., strike/dip, dip/dip direction, and plunge and trend)
  • Identify and describe geologic contacts such as depositional (conformable) contacts, unconformities, faults, intrusive contacts, and shear zones
  • Identify geological units in the field and in stratigraphic logs that are potential aquifers, and where these aquifers may be in contact with streams.
  • Distinguish between observations and interpretations
  • Record field observations and interpretations in a concise and systematic format in your notebook
  • Sketch important field relationships in a neat, oriented, and annotated drawing in your notebook
  • Measure, systemically describe, and construct a graphic log (stratigraphic column) of a section of sedimentary strata
  • Identify geomorphological and hydrological features in the field and from air photographs, satellite imagery, and remote sensing
  • Locate and plot features on a topographic map and identify structural, geomorphological, and hydrologic features from stream and contour line patterns
  • Read and plot basic elements on a geological map, such as rock units, lithologic and structural symbols, and legend
  • Interpret geologic maps, including the orientation of rock units and relative ages of different rock units and deformation events/structures
  • Interpret field data to reconstruct the geological history of a field site
  • Describe the flood history and mitigation strategies, and water supply and contamination issues for a region and municipality
  • Utilize proper field equipment and etiquette to work safely, responsibly, and professionally in the field
  • Understand land access and use, and community engagement, necessary to conduct fieldwork in BC
  • Use computer spreadsheets, such as Excel, to organize and analyze a large amount of field data
  • Display and interpret field data using a GIS application

Grading

  • Lecture/ Theory exams 30%
  • Lab Assignments 20%
  • Field Notes 20%
  • Field Assignments 20%
  • Lab Exam 10%

REQUIREMENTS:

Costs: In addition to the course registration fee, students should budget for food expenses on the Merritt field exercises.

Be aware that during the field trip there will be periods of strenuous hiking, walking close to cliffs, and crossing roads with busy traffic.  Appropriate clothing and footwear should be worn.  Further details regarding safety, food, camping and field supplies will be discussed prior to the field trip.  An Acknowledgement of Risk form will need to be signed at the first lecture.

A course specific supplementary fee of $172.80 will be assessed.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Field Equipment: 

Students must be prepared to camp.  Required gear: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping-pad, cooking gear, warm clothing, rain gear.  A hand lens is strongly recommended.  Further details will be provided upon course registration.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Geological Field Techniques; Angela L. Coe, first edition 2010; Wiley Blackwell ISBN: 978-1-4443-3062-5

NOTE: For students intending to take EASC 306, the same textbook is “recommended reading.”


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.