This course explores the physical and biological aspects of the Earths dynamic past over the last 4.6 billion years of its existence. Emphasis is placed on the geologic time scale, the concepts of physical and biological evolution, and plate tectonics. Laboratory topics include fossilization and taphonomy as well as the biological evolution and diversity of the Earths organisms through identification and examination of fossil specimens. Field trips may be taken during laboratory periods. An end-of-semester visit to the American Museum of Natural History in Manhattan is encouraged. Prerequisite: GL101 Physical Geology.