ENSC 2204 - Introduction to Soil Science

Description
An introductory college level course in soils science that is the basis for several disciplines. The study of chemical, physical, and biological properties of soils including the classification and origin of soils. Three hours of lecture and three hours of lab weekly.

Pre-Requisite
NONE Note: Highly recommended: One semester of university-level chemistry (e.g., CHEM 1103, CHEM 1074, etc.). In addition, students are expected to have a working knowledge of the metric system (SI units).

4 Credit Hour(s)

Contact Hours
45 lecture hours 45 lab hours

5 Faculty Load Hour(s)

Semesters Offered
Fall

ACTS Equivalent
N/A

Grade Mode
A-F

Learning Outcomes
Students completing this course will:

List issues related to karst topography and sedimentary rock soils, including topsoil loss and water quality concerns related to the rapid growth of any region.
Describe the function of soils, basic structure, and characteristics of soils and how they are formed.
Apply the principles learned to comprehend, evaluate, and solve problems of soil management in the environment.

General Education Outcomes Supported
N/A

Standard Practices
Topics list

Function of Soils
Basic Structure and Characteristics of Soils
Soil Water Characteristics and Hydrology
Soil Aeration, Temperature, and Colloids
Acidity, Alkalinity, and Salinity of Soils
Organisms and Organic Matter
Fertility of Soils
Soil Erosion and Control

Learning activities

Courses must, at a minimum, cover the core learning outcomes for each topic.
Laboratory exercises include
- Soil texture
- Soil color
- Redoximorphic Features of soils
- Ped Features
- Describing soil profiles
- Soil Water
- Liming
- Reading fertilizer analysis
- Taking soil samples
- Web soil survey analysis

Assessments

Required forms of assessment include written examinations, formal laboratory journal, and demonstration of understanding of the principles presented in lecture. Also, students will be required to demonstrate proficiency in applying core laboratory skills and practices used in the study of soil science.

Grading guidelines

A minimum of 70% of the grade must be proctored, supervised, or otherwise verified.
Approximately 25% of the grade must come from lab work since the lab and lecture credits for this course are combined.