Module FOUD0877: Foundation Earth Science and Physical Geography

Department: Foundation Year (Durham)

FOUD0877: Foundation Earth Science and Physical Geography

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To introduce students to a range of foundational concepts in Earth Science and Physical Geography
• To introduce practical fieldwork and develop students ability to use observation, and the ability to record and interpret observations.
• To introduce students to a range of vocabulary essential for a critical understanding of Earth Science and Physical Geography
• To prepare students for future studies in Higher Education.

Content

• Earth Science and Physical Geography topics such as:
• Structure of the earth: crust, mantle and core.
• The Rock Cycle, Processes and Products: classification, formation, textures and structures of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Identification of basic rock types.
• Minerals: Composition of minerals, properties of minerals.
• Global Tectonics: Earthquakes, volcanoes.
• Rock deformation: folds, faults, unconformities, bedding, jointing, dip and strike.
• Weathering, erosion and transportation by ice, water and wind.
• Introduction to Palaeontology: Fossils and palaeoenvironments, fossilisation processes.
• Geological timescale.
• Introduction to practical geological and physical geography skills: Practical application of some theory concentrating on descriptive, observational and interpretative skills involving the use of fieldwork, geological maps and cross sections.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the programme students will have:
• 1. Knowledge of a range of foundational subject concepts
• 2. Knowledge of a range of relevant research methods
• 3. Knowledge of a range of relevant vocabulary

• By the end of the programme students will be able to:
• 1. Demonstrate the appropriate use of a range of foundational subject concepts
• 2. Demonstrate the appropriate use of relevant research methods
• 3. Demonstrate the appropriate use of a range of relevant vocabulary

• By the end of the programme students will be able to:
• 1. Demonstrate critical thinking
• 2. Demonstrate effective communication using appropriate academic styles
• 3. Demonstrate appropriate use of number
• 4. Demonstrate the use of appropriate sources of evidence

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

• Seminars, Workshops and Fieldwork

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Class work exercises

■ 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