EA2100:03
Stratigraphy and Palaeontology
Townsville
Prerequisites: EA1001 or EA1100 or EA1300
24 lectures, 36 hours practicals. First semester
Staff: Professor R Henderson.
This subject offers instruction in the classification and interpretation of stratigraphic systems based on sedimentary and volcanic sequences, facies patterns and temporal relationships. It provides an introduction to invertebrate fossils and their use as temporal and palaeoenvironmental indicators in the context of stratigraphy.
Learning Objectives:
- to provide an introduction to the styles of layering represented in successions of sedimentary and volcanic rocks and their interpretation in temporal and process terms;
- to introduce the conceptual framework of how three dimensional stratigraphic systems are analysed and interpreted in terms of facies patterns and temporal relationships;
- to provide basic knowledge of the materials of invertebrate palaeontology inclusive of systematics and taphonomy;
- to provide an introduction to the analysis of interpretation of invertebrate fossils in terms of temporal patterns and palaeoenvironmental signatures.
Assessment by a two-and-a-half hour written examination (45%); performance in practical classes (35%); written assignment (20%).