Geology

For students who are interested in the origins of the Earth, how it was formed and what has happened to the landscape and inhabitants of our planet through geological time then A Level Geology is a perfect choice. 

Geology is a Science subject and can be studied with the other sciences e.g. Biology, Chemistry and Physics and with Geography.  Many arts-based students also study Geology in order to maintain a balanced curriculum.  

No previous knowledge of Geology is expected or required.  We look for students who are interested in finding out how our planet works and that you enjoy going out into the field to investigate.

A Level Geology

Year 12 topics include:

• Minerals – their physical and chemical properties, how they are identified and their uses to mankind.
• Rocks – a study of sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks and their uses.
• Fossils – the ancient life forms that are found in the rocks and what they tell us about previous climates, environments and evolution.
• Composition of the Earth – how evidence of its layered structure can be obtained by studying earthquakes and meteorites.
• Plate Tectonics – a study of the features associated with plate margins e.g. mountain chains, volcanoes, earthquakes – how and why these features were formed and how they shape the Earth.
• Hazards – the prediction, control and reduction of the impact of geological hazards such as volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, waste disposal and radon gas.
• Geological Time – how geological time is measured and how geological events are placed in their correct sequence.
• Structural Geology – the structures which are formed within rocks, e.g. folds, faults.
• Mapwork – the interpretation of geological maps and the drawing of cross-sections.

Year 13 topics include:

• Greater depth study of: rocks, fossils, plate tectonics, structural geology and mapwork
• Economic Geology (e.g. coal, oil, gas, precious metals etc)
• The Geology of the quaternary period (Britain in the Ice Age)

During lessons we utilise a variety of learning techniques.  Practical work throughout the course complements classroom theory teaching which allows our students to apply their understanding in the field. We visit local sites in the Peak District and there is a residential trip, to the Devon Coast in Year 13.

Assessment

Paper 1: A two hour practical paper including specimens, photographs and maps.

Paper 2: A two hour data response paper made up of short answer questions.

Paper 3: A two hour paper with short answer structured questions on geohazards,quaternary geology and a geological map.

Co-curricular Activities:

• We run an exciting trip to Iceland on a bi-annual basis
• We participate in the Geological Societies National Schools Challenge
• Our subject Prefects are able to participate in a range of activities and events to share their learning with a wider audience and inspire our younger learners

Many students choose to take Geology or Earth Science courses at University and there is currently a global shortage of trained geologists to work for mining and oil companies across the globe.  A Level Geology also provides a science qualification for students wishing to pursue a variety of other courses or career paths.