Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2014-2015 (archived)

Module GEOL2267: THE GEOLOGICAL EVOLUTION OF THE BRITISH ISLES

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL2267: THE GEOLOGICAL EVOLUTION OF THE BRITISH ISLES

Type Open Level 2 Credits 10 Availability Available in 2014/15 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To introduce the geology and geological history of the British Isles.
  • To improve the ability of students to make three-dimensional interpretations of geological maps.

Content

  • The Geology of the British Isles.
  • Major events in the geological history of the British Isles related to plate tectonic processes.
  • Economic geology in Britain.
  • Using cross sections to better understand geology in three dimensions.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • To relate major events in the geological history of the British Isles to plate tectonic processes.
  • To consider how these events are represented in the geology of the British Isles.
  • Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in geological principles, terms, definitions and classifications.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to synthesize information/data from a variety of sources.
  • Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to analyze, evaluate/interpret geological data.
  • Cross-section construction and geological map interpretation, including use of software (4D Move).
Key Skills:
  • Receive and respond to a variety of information sources.
  • Prepare, process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques and packages.
  • Develop skills necessary for self-managed lifelong learning (including independent working, time management).
  • Practical competency: 3 dimensional interpretation of Earth structures.
  • Innovation and creativity, problem solving.

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

  • The module is delivered through a flexible mix of three-hour sessions comprising lectures and practical sessions, tutorial and fieldtrips.
  • These are supported by handouts and directed reading.
  • The continual part of the summative assessment will take place during the first term.
  • Guidance on preparation, key and exam skills are provided.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 10 Weekly 1 hour 10
Practicals 10 Weekly 2 hours 20
Preparation and Reading 70
Total 100

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 60%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
One hour unseen written examination 100%
Component: Continual Assessment Component Weighting: 40%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Report on the 3D geology of an area using maps and sections 100%

Formative Assessment:

Practical exercises in Weeks 1-5.


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