Geology A Level
Overview
You will study the WJEC EDUQAS A level Geology specification which provides a comprehensive coverage of the knowledge and understanding required for the study of the Earth, its structures, evolution and dynamics.
Learners are encouraged to respond to geological information in both local and new situations in the laboratory and in the field.
Course Overview:
- Understand the principles of materials within the processes in the rock cycle
- Understand the scale of time especially in the context of plate tectonics
- Understand past life and climates in the natural cycles of the Earth
- Understand the role of geologists in geohazards and sustainable resource management.
Course Outcomes:
- Explain the fundamental concepts of geological science and its applications
- Analyse and interpret geological settings from fieldwork
- Explain how geologists crucially contribute to the sustainable success of the economy and society.
Key information
- A minimum of seven GCSE’s grade A*-C
- Including grade C in English and grade B in Mathematics
- You do not need a GCSE in Geography or Geology
- A commitment and enthusiasm for scientific wonder of Planet Earth.
4 ½ hrs per week in lectures. At least 4 fieldtrips over 2 years. 3 Moodle Courses including the ‘Main Page’, ‘Geology in the News’ and ‘Developing Mathematical Skills in Geology’. There is a ‘coursework’ type student portfolio covering 20 different practicals.
Exams:
C1-Geological Investigations- (35%)-data response questions and practical enquiry on specimens and black and white map
C2-Geological Principles and Processes- (30%) stimulus response questions requiring short, structured and extended answers.(83 words)
C3- Geological Applications (35%) stimulus response questions requiring short and structured answers. BGS Colour map investigation.
Past students have gone on to study Geology at universities in Cardiff, Exeter, Portsmouth and Plymouth. In a recent government policy called ‘UK Critical Minerals Strategy’, the government committed to focus on the critical mineral supply chain, including training the next generation of geologists, engineers and beyond. Geologists, engineering geologists, geophysicists and hydrogeologists are all on the ‘Shortage Occupation List’ so the future is bright for Earth scientists!
Also, there are currently many career opportunities on infrastructure projects such as HS2 and the remediation of damaged land in places like former brownfield sites in South Wales.