GEOL1021: EARTH MATERIALS

• GEOL1101 Understanding Earth Sciences

• GEOL1101 Understanding Earth Sciences, unless taken before.

• GEOL1111 Environmental Earth Science.

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

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

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• 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.

Subject-specific Skills:

• 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.

Key Skills:

• Make and record scientific observations in a systematic manner.
• Integrate multiple observations to deduce probable solutions.

• 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 practical classes form an important component of the module allowing "hands on" learning (where practical) and experience of identifying rocks and minerals - a foundational skill for earth scientists.
• Summative assessment is made up of practical tests and exercises in identifying and understanding the significance of minerals and rocks.
• Formative assessment is provided by web-based and/or practical exercises.
• Guidance on preparation, key and exam skills are provided.

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