Module GEOL1021: EARTH MATERIALS

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL1021: EARTH MATERIALS

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To introduce students to Earth materials and techniques for identifying these in hand specimen and thin section.

Content

• The principals of mineral classification.
• Identification of minerals using physical characteristics.
• Recognition of different types of rocks.
• Relationship of mineral and rock textures to rock-forming processes.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the principles of mineral classification.
• Relate mineral and rock textures to rock-forming processes.
• 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 of the Earth.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in geochemical processes and their role in shaping the Earth.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in the structure and properties of Earth materials.

• Identify minerals using physical characteristics.
• Recognise different types of rocks.
• 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 observe, record accurately and account for geological features in the laboratory and in the field.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to analyse, evaluate/interpret geological data.

• Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences in written and graphical forms.
• Solve problems using computer or non-computer techniques.

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

• The module is delivered through a mix of one-hour lecture and two-hour practical slots, supported by handouts, directed reading and web-based assignments.
• The practicals form an important component of the module allowing "hands on" learning and experience of identifying rocks and minerals - a foundational skill for earth scientists.
• Summative assessment is made up of practical tests in identifying and understanding the significance of minerals and rocks.
• An unseen written exam will provide and test the student's understanding of supporting theory.
• Formative assessment is provided by web-based tests.
• Guidance on preparation, key and exam skills are provided.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Web-based self-assessment packages.

■ 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