Geology AS/A2

Geology is the branch of science concerned with the structure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth and with the exploitation of the mineral and energy resources that it contains. Geology demonstrates the relevance of science to society, not least, in the hazards it predicts, its insight into the evolution of life and its collaboration in engineering projects.

Course Outline 6 units — 3 for AS and 3 for A2:
AS Level

Foundation Geology is organised into:

• Matter — the global structure of the Earth and the composition of the crust
• Energy — the Earth’s energy sources and processes, which produce minerals, igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and the movement of the plates.
• Time and Change — the geological record of rocks and fossils and the dating of geological events.

Investigative Geology — geological techniques and skills

• Using the material from Foundation Geology, this Unit consists of Fieldwork, a minimum of 3 days; laboratory work and problem-solving exercises.

Geology and the Human Environment is divided into:

• Natural Geological Hazards — volcanic, earthquake and mass movement
• Prediction and Control of — volcanic, earthquake and mass movement hazards
• Hazards resulting from Human Activity — waste disposal, water supply, mining
• Engineering Geology — geological factors involved in the construction of dams, reservoirs, cuttings, tunnels, buildings.

A2 Level

Investigating the Geological Record

• Rock forming Processes — detailed study of the rock cycle
• Rock Deformation — types of stress and the resultant rock structures
• Use of Fossils — the fossil record; the succession of life; palaeogeography.

Geological Map Interpretation

• interpreting and applying information from geological maps, photos and specimens

Geological Themes

• Quaternary Geology — evidence of major climatic change; conditions in the UK.
• Evolution of Britain — the geological history of the UK

Geological Investigations — laboratory work in College and 6 days fieldwork.