F6rm

Geology

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The world is complex and dynamic, with the landscapes, rocks and ecosystems around us interacting with one another in an ever changing environment. A Level Geology will give you the opportunity to explore these concepts, studying how the Earth came into existence, discover the processes behind volcanoes, earthquakes, and climate change while allowing you to gain firsthand experience of practical geology.

What is the course content?

The F6rm Geology course follows the WJEC A-Level specification. In the first year (AS) you will study three units based around developing your geological skills. In Unit GL1, ‘Foundation Geology’, you will have the opportunity to explore how the Earth formed, how rocks have formed, and how plate tectonics operate. In Unit GL2, ‘Investigative Geology’, you will gain firsthand experience of handling, examining and analysing rocks, minerals and fossils as well as getting into the field. Unit GL3 ‘Geology and the Human Environment’ allows you to consider geological hazards such as volcanoes and landslides, and how people have overcome living in these environments. In the second year (A2) you will study Unit GL4, ‘Interpreting the Geological Record’ allowing you to gain a better understanding of past environments and how the fossil record can help identify changes in climate. In GL5, ‘Geological Themes’ you will explore modern environments and how glaciation has affected the landscape of the UK, and the Geology of natural resources. GL6, ‘Geological Investigations’ will allow you to carry out primary research in the field.

How will you be assessed?

Assessment of understanding will be conducted throughout the course and will reflect the dynamic variation used in the examination process. The GL1 exam is 1 hour long and consists of short answers, while GL3 is 1 hour 15 minutes and includes a combination of data-response questions and one essay from a choice of three. GL2 is an internal practical assessment that assesses your practical and investigative skills. GL4 and GL5 are both two hour exams which include both data response questions and one essay from a choice of three. GL6 requires two pieces of investigative geology to be conducted and presented in the form of a written report.

What skills will you learn?

Geology is both a practical and theoretical science that will allow you to acquire a host of transferable skills that will be invaluable in your future studies or career, including how to evaluate sources of information, interpret written and physical resources, use scientific techniques and develop an understanding of the link between theory and experiment.

What are the opportunities for progression?

Geology A-Level is useful for anyone considering a degree course in the Geosciences (including oceanography) as well as Archaeological, Biological, Chemical Environmental and Physical Sciences. The knowledge and skills that you acquire will also be relevant for careers in land management, town planning, mining and building, heritage and environmental science.

What are the entry requirements?

We usually require candidates to have the standard F6rm A-level entry criteria, including a GCSE Science to at least grade B. You must be willing to undertake the fieldwork and have the commitment to complete the associated field reports successfully.

What are the costs?

The one day field excursions in year one will incur nominal travelling expenses. The Loch Ranza field school in year two, which will be a vital component of the final result of GL6, is a weeklong field school that is around £350.

Educational visits/enrichment opportunities

You will be expected to undertake at least three days fieldwork in the first year and six days in the second year of studies. You will also be invited to guest lectures by experienced geologists in the college.

Tags : Earth Sciences · Geology

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Posted in : A Levels