After discussing the definitions of uniformitarianism and catastrophism in class yesterday, today we compared and contrasted these two mutually exclusive theories. Remember - we can’t put these in a venn diagram because these would signify two seperate circles that do not overlap.

Additionally, we discussed what the primary tenets of a debate are. These include evidence being presented from opposing viewpoints, equal time, and other controls being placed on the discussion. The project that will be constructed for this unit is to complete an 8.5″x11″ poster advertising a (fictitious) debate between a catastrophist and a uniformitarianist. Check out the Geology Debate Poster Rubric for full details. In a nutshell: the poster should be visually stimulating, eye-catching, and include all of the following components:

• Content - details on each theory
• Examples - multiple examples of the geologic change resulting from each theory
• Images - images of the examples or of the players

See the Earth’s Story Notes for the full info from today’s class. Also, for some inspiration on the format that can be employed in creating a debate poster, check out these images available online - all controversial, all eye-catching, and all well-produced:

• Is there a God?
• Gender and Science
• Socialism vs. Capitalism

Remember: The poster should only be on 8.5×11″ paper (no larger) and can be done by hand or on a computer. All images MUST be sourced! This project is due on Monday at the start of class.