This homework problem has been used in an introductory geology course for non-majors.

Command of porosity, permeability, reservoir rock, cap rock, conventional drilling methods, environmental impacts

This is one of several outside homework assignments.

Students should be able to synthesize technological advances and their impact on hydrocarbon extraction and environmental protection. They also need to perform basic data analysis.

Accessing and utilizing reliable internet resources

To complete this homework problem students should be familiar with conventional aspects of crude oil and natural gas exploration, including hydrocarbon traps, reservoir characteristics (porosity and permeability), recovery and environmental impacts. The homework is designed to expand their understanding of hydrocarbon resources by introducing an unconventional natural gas play. Students explore the technological factors that make conventional source rocks attractive reservoir rocks and how this advance impacts both U.S. energy supply and the environment. The strategy of the assignment is to lead students through a learning process in which concepts are introduced and followed by questions that require application of the concepts. For example, the concept of an unconventional reservoir rock is introduced and then followed by a question about why shale would be considered such a reservoir rock. Although some basic statistical analysis is required, the thrust of the homework problem is to grasp how technology is changing national energy supply.

Homework goals are assessed by evaluating student responses of 10 integrated questions.

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection: Marcellus Shale
Earthworks: Shale Gas (pdf)