Syllabus
This course provides fundamentals of soils and plant nutrition. The physical, biological and chemical components of soils are investigated in relation to their ecological functions, fertility to plants, and sustainable management. The focus of discussion is on the role of soils in connecting human societies with the natural environment.
Course structure and
format:
General and theoretical
materials are introduced during the initial period of approximately 55
minutes of each lecture. Each lecture period is expected to have
35 minutes of follow-up discussion. Assignment
for the lecture part of this course include article reviews and library
research. A midterm examination and a final examination are given
as part of performance evaluation.
Required textbook:
Ray R. Weil and Nyle C. Brady. 2019. Elements of the Nature and
Properties of soils. Pearson/Prentice Hall, 4th edition. Both hardcover and eText of the textbook is
available at the publisher's webpage: https://www.pearson.com/en-us/subject-catalog/p/elements-of-the-nature-and-properties-of-soils/P200000000824/9780137504831
Course evaluation:
Student performance is evaluated based on a
midterm
exam (40%), a final exam (45%), and all other
assignments (15%).