Geology

GEOLOGY
AS and A LEVEL

WHAT IS GEOLOGY?

At St Wilfrid's you can study Geology to both AS and A2 level. Many of you will have heard of the subject but few of you will realise the breadth of study that this subject involves.  At AS level it provides the opportunity to study a range of geological processes which operate at and below the earth's surface, whilst at A2 level topics include the study of fossils as well as petrology.

What grades do you require to do geology?
The subject specifications are designed to cater for those who have no or limited knowledge of geology although the minimum of a C grade in Dual Science is essential.

What subjects does it complement?
Geology is particularly well suited to those who wish to study Geography, Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Maths.  However, there may be students who wish to broaden their understanding of Earth Science whilst pursuing a more Humanities based curriculum.

What are the career opportunities for geology graduates?
There are many occupations for those who obtain a Geological Sciences/Earth Science degree at university. These include Geophysicist, Volcanologist, Geochemist, Palaeontologist, Mining Engineer, Petroleum Geologist, Museum Curator, Mineralogist, Teacher and many more.

Which members of staff teach geology?
Currently there are two members of the department who teach geology. These are Mrs Crompton and
Mr Sloan.

Fieldwork
By the very nature of the subject fieldwork is an essential part of the curriculum and during the year a number of half and full day visits will be undertaken in order to meet the subject specifications and enhance the delivery of the course content.

How is the course assessed?
Currently the course follows the OCR specifications and is examined on a modular basis. The content of the modules is outlined below.

2831 Global Tectonics and Structures
2832 Rock Cycle Processes and Products 2833/1 Economic and Environmental Geology
2833/2 Laboratory and Fieldskills (1)
2834 Palaentology Evolution and Extinctia: Palaeoenvironments - Mode of Life Dating
2835 Petrology: Classification and Processes: Sedimentary Classification and Processes: Metamorphic Classification and Processes 2836/01 Geological Skills 2836/82 Laboratory Field Skills (2)

Examination Schedule
AS Level:
Modules 2831; 2832; 2833/1 will be examined in the summer examination of the lower sixth.
Module 2833/2 is a coursework unit that will be completed in the lower sixth and assessed as part of the summer session.

A2 Level:
Modules 2834 will be examined during the January examination session.
Modules 2835, 2836/01 and 2836/02 will be examined during the summer examination session.

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE