The Earth is a dynamic planet. As planetary citizens, we need to understand the components of the Earth and what geologic processes occur on it. Therefore, in this course we develop skills that enable us to examine the materials that comprise the solid Earth and understand processes that operate in the geosphere. We explore topics including plate tectonics, minerals and rocks, volcanism, earthquakes, geologic time, groundwater and surface water, arid environments and the cryosphere. In sum, we develop the ability to study the Earth closely and thereby increase the well-being of all living things.