1. Evaluate the accuracy and internal consistency of a hand-drawn map and cross-section by constructing a geologic model
2. Develop a geologic history of the mapped field area based on a constructed geologic model
3. Predict the type and geometry of structures located outside of a field area based on a three-dimensional model

This activity is designed for an undergraduate field methods course, although it would be well-suited for a structural geology course as well. It is designed to be completed either as a homework assignment or a lab activity. The assignment is intended to take ~2 hours, depending on student comfort with the Visible Geology web-based application.

Students must already have completed a paper-based map and cross-section of some field area prior to doing this activity. Similarly, they should already be comfortable using the basics of the Visible Geology Geology Explorer module — particularly using the "Sculpt Topography" tool, and it is assumed they have already taken a course in structural geology.

It would be relatively easy to adapt this activity to any field area, although it was designed using a subset of the Argenta, MT 1:24,000 quadrangle.

In a previous class meeting or project, students will have drafted a map and cross-section of their field area. This project uses those data as a starting point to generate a three-dimensional model of their map area. Students then explore their model and answer questions contained in the activity document.

Visible Geology teaching activity_map cross_section 3D model.docx (Microsoft Word 2007 (.docx) 5.1MB May15 26)

Visible Geology Teaching Activity - Map Cross Section 3D Model.pdf (Acrobat (PDF) 452kB May15 26)

• To complete this activity, students must already have a complete or near-complete map and cross-section of some field area. They will use these products to guide the creation of a model using the Geology Explorer module.
• Students should already be familiar with the Visible Geology Geology Explorer module. Specifically, they should be able to:
  • sculpt topography
  • add layers and manipulate layer thickness
  • fold, tilt, fault, and erode layers
  • generate cross-sections
• If they have these skills, students should be able to work through the exercise with only light instructor involvement. Predicted questions revolve around logging into Visible Geology with their Google account and sharing their generated model.
• To save and share their work in Visible Geology, students are encouraged to log in with their Google Account.

Learning Goal 1. Evaluate accuracy and internal consistency of a hand-drawn map and cross-section by constructing a geologic model
Assessment Focus: correct identification of inconsistencies between hand-drawn map and cross-section, creation of geologic model without any major (e.g., >250 m horizontal deviation) inaccuracies
Deliverables: written summary comparing hand-drawn map/cross-section with constructed model, geologic model and cross section generated through geologic model

Learning Goal 2. Develop a geologic history of the mapped field area based on constructed geologic model
Assessment Focus: accuracy and completeness of written geologic history
Deliverables: Written geologic history of field area

Learning Goal 3. Predict the type and geometry of structures located outside of a field area based on a three-dimensional model
Assessment Focus: description of predicted structure: Is it accurate? Is it detailed given the available information?
Deliverables: Description of predicted structural feature(s)

• For tips, tricks and how-to videos for using Visible Geology, check out the Visible Geology Help & Resources.
• Visible Geology has published a series of videos describing how to make geologic models using their Geology Explorer tool. These are really helpful for students and instructors to explore ahead of time, particularly any tutorials that discuss how to generate custom terrains.