ESC-10045 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2022/23

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Standard University entry requirements for year 1

Barred Combinations

Not available as an elective to students on any Geology degree (Geology SH, CH, MGeology, for 2021 includes: Geology (Volcanology), Geology (Geoforensics), Geology (Environmental Geoscience), Geology (Geophysics) and Geology and Physical Geology SH.

Description for 2022/23

Geology forms one of the core underpinning disciplines of both Environmental and Sustainability Science, and knowledge of geology is essential to many practicing environmental scientists. This module focuses on the basic underlying geological principles and concepts. Specific topics covered include:
- the internal structure of the Earth and its development since the formation of the Solar System
- the theory of Plate Tectonics, its manifestation on the Earth's current surface, and the consequences of its operation in the geological past
- minerals and the three major subdivisions of rocks, including their identification and how their properties (e.g. porosity and permeability) can relate to a variety of environmental science issues
- how rocks and geological events may be dated, both relatively and in terms of the absolute time scale
- the links between geology and society, including resource management and natural hazards
In addition, practical-based exercises will provide experience of a variety of geoscience data and phenomena, including the identification of minerals and rocks, and interpretation of geological maps.

To introduce students to basic geological principles and concepts, including the formation and history of our planet, the nature of the Earth and its materials (minerals and rocks), large scale earth processes, the links between geology and society and other basic geological skills.

Intended Learning Outcomes

discuss and apply fundamental geological theories and concepts
: 1
recognise and describe and interpret rocks, minerals and fossils: 1
apply geological concepts in an interdisciplinary manner to societal issues:

Study hours

- Synchronous online 10 hours
- Practical classes 22 hours
- Completion of assignments, asynchronous online material and private study 118 hours

School Rules

Not available as an elective to students on any Geology degree (Geology SH, CH, MGeology, for 2021 includes: Geology (Volcanology), Geology (Geoforensics), Geology (Environmental Geoscience), Geology (Geophysics) and Geology and Physical Geology SH.

Description of Module Assessment