This publication will introduce you to the principles and practices of identification and classification of soil and rock. Identification and classification are the essential first steps in soil mechanics and engineering, and engineering of foundations for structures such as buildings, dams and bridges. Without an understanding of the soil and rock materials you must work with on a specific project, analysis and engineering design cannot proceed. This course will give you an introduction to soils and rock that will allow you to move forward in your knowledge and understanding through use of design manuals and more advanced treatises.