Learning objectives: Students who complete the module acquire a basic understanding of the structure, evolution, and dynamics of terrestrial planets from the perspective of the Earth. Taking their knowledge of the most important physical and chemical processes as a basis, they understand the fundamental cycles of the Earth system, including in comparison to other planetary bodies. They are able to identify the most important rock-forming minerals and rocks and can assign them to formation conditions. Students know the main principles of the structure and properties of rock-forming minerals. They can successfully work on tasks in teams and present the results in an appropriate format.

Content: Students learn about the fundamental systems and processes of planet Earth. This includes, among other things, the dimensions of space and time, chemical composition, geoscientific cycles, such as sedimentary cycles, as well as the interaction between hydrosphere, atmosphere, and geosphere. They also address magmatism, metamorphism, and rock deformation, as well as plate tectonics. With the help of macroscopy and microscopy, minerals and rocks are identified and results are presented and discussed in groups.