Module GEOL1011: HOW THE EARTH WORKS

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL1011: HOW THE EARTH WORKS

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To introduce the fundamental principles of Earth Science.
• To illustrate the relationship between rocks and minerals and the processes by which they were formed.
• To place Earth processes in the context of the plate tectonic cycle and the hydrologic cycle.
• To provide a module which simultaneously acts as a stand-alone module for all Science students wanting a basic introduction to the Earth, and for Earth Science students who will use the material in most of their subsequent courses.

Content

• The principles of plate tectonics to the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks and natural phenomena (earthquakes, volcanoes and crustal deformation).
• Plate tectonic, surface and climate processes are responsible for generating sediments, and influence the development of sedimentary systems.
• Geophysical principles (seismology, gravity) applied to understanding the structure and composition of Earth's interior.
• The processes responsible for generating igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
• Relating physiographic features of the Earth's surface to the processes responsible for their formation.

Learning Outcomes

• To relate the principles of plate tectonics to the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks and natural phenomena (earthquakes, volcanoes and crustal deformation).
• Explain how plate tectonic, surface and climate processes are responsible for generating sediments, and influence the development of sedimentary systems.
• Apply geophysical principles (seismology, gravity) to understanding the structure and composition of Earth's interior.
• Describe the processes for generating igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
• Relate physiographic features of the Earth's surface to the processes responsible for their formation.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in geological principles, terms, definitions and classifications.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in the structure, composition and history of the Earth/geological timescales.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in ecological, biological and geochemical processes and their role in shaping the Earth.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in the structure and properties of Earth materials.

• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills in order to apply geological principles and methodologies to the solution of familiar and unfamiliar problems.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to formulate and test concepts and hypotheses
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to synthesise information/data from a variety of sources.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills in citation and appropriate use of the literature.

• Receive and respond to a variety of information sources.
• Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences in written, verbal and graphical forms.
• Prepare, process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques and packages.
• Use the internet critically as a means of communication and a source of information.
• Identify individual and collective goals and responsibilities.
• Recognise and respect the views of other team members.
• Evaluate performance.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module is delivered through a series of flexible 3-hour class meetings which will include lecture, discussion and practical exercise, supported by handouts, directed reading and web-based assignments.
• The discussions and exercises form an important component of the module encouraging learning and experience of tackling and solving problems individually in class, on DUO and in groups.
• Summative assessment is made up of 20% of a scientific reasoning and writing exercise.
• 20% group project and presentation and 60% unseen written exam.
• Formative assessment is provided in weekly quantitative exercises DUO tests and a tutorial.
• Guidance on preparation, key and exam skills are provided.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Quantitative exercises, including isostasy calculations, earthquake locations, plate tectonic.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University