This module will explore the physical structure of the Earth, and the processes that operate within the Earth. It will explain how that knowledge is obtained, and the consequences of the plate tectonic and volcanic processes that operate from within the Earth. The formation of minerals and rocks will be examined alongside a practical introduction to the identification and description of major minerals and rock types.

The relationship of geology to planetary morphology will be explored through an exposition of the rock cycle and Earth History, with a dynamic stratigraphy of the British Isles forming a key exemplar of the geological history of the Earth. A critical component of this part of the course will be the study and understanding of geological maps, with an emphasis upon using modern IT technologies, including mobile technologies to interpret the structure and geological scenery of Britain.

Key geological field skills will be explained and put into practice through laboratory and field project work, giving students a firm grounding in the understanding of the geological basis to landscape evolution.

The module finishes with an exploration of the extra-terrestrial planetary geology and geomorphology and its relevance to our understanding of the origin and functioning of the Earth.

Production of a poster illustrating the field geology of classic geological exposures around Stoke-on-Trent (30%) [Learning Outcomes 3, 4, 5]

A 45 minute short answer test to be taken at the end of the semester (70%) [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 5] – Final assessment

• Lectures - 24 hrs (these will be used to both introduce theoretical concepts and introduce and contextualise specific practical / file tasks),

• Workshops - 8 hrs (4 x 2 hour sessions timed to coincide with the introduction of appropriate theoretical concepts, attendance is compulsory)

• Field work - 16 hrs (two 8 hour field days providing field data for subsequent workshop sessions, attendance is compulsory)

• Guided Independent Learning @36 hrs for formative reading and tasks to complete field poster assignment.

• Assessment Preparation @66 hrs for planning, researching and revising for exam

Rothery, D.A. 2015. Geology: A complete introduction. Teach Yourself (Hachette UK).

Park, G. 2010(2nd edn) Introducing Geology. Dunedin, Edinburgh

Smithson, P. & Addison, K. 2008 (4th edn) Fundamentals of the Physical Environment. Routledge, London.

Summerfield, M.A. 1991. Global Geomorphology. Longman, Harlow.

Geological specimens, hand lenses
IT facilities inc. tablets
Environmental Laboratory (particle size analysis).

None.

1) Demonstrate an understanding of the physical structure of the Earth and the interactions and consequences of plate tectonics.
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING, LEARNING, ANALYSIS)

2) Demonstrate an understanding of the igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary and surficial geological processes that shape the Earth.
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING, LEARNING, ANALYSIS)

3) Obtain, record and analyse appropriate primary and secondary geological data from a range of sources using a variety of techniques.
(LEARNING, ENQUIRY, ANALYSIS, APPLICATION)

4) Present field and laboratory generated information in a variety of forms - figures, graphs, tables and text, and interpret and discuss the data analysis results.
(PROBLEM SOLVING, COMMUNICATION, APPLICATION)

5) Communicate an understanding of conceptual and/ or practical knowledge clearly and concisely.
(LEARNING, COMMUNICATION, APPLICATION, REFLECTION)