Aims

Develop an understanding of the key processes that shape the Earth over geological time,
Develop an understanding the structure of the solid Earth,
Introduce students to the key paradigm of plate tectonics,
Introduce mineralogy and the rock forming minerals,
Develop an understanding of the rock cycle
Describe the key geological processes that form igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
Describe the key rock forming minerals in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
Have an understanding of basic geological structures.

Outline Of Syllabus

Through a series of lectures, practical and field trips the students will gain an understanding of the dynamic process that underpin the formation of different rocks. Specifically;
Structure and composition of the solid earth
Global plate tectonics – driving forces, plate motions, plate boundaries, and the Wilson cycle
Geological time and major global geological change
The rock cycle and principles of mineralogy / crystallography
Igneous rocks and their formation and mineralogy – descriptions, classification, intrusive and extrusive
volcanism, fractional melting and crystallisation, Bowens reaction series
Metamorphic rocks and their formation and mineralogy – descriptions, classification, contact and regional metamorphism, facies and grade
Sedimentary rocks and their formation and mineralogy – descriptions, classification, weathering, transport, depositional environments, stratigraphic concepts
An introduction to geological structures and maps

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures are used to provide 1) an introduction to processes and the evidence of these and 2) information, details and facts, as well as a guide to the syllabus and reading. This is reinforced using case studies and practical classes. Case studies presented in the lectures are used to explain the link between outcrops and geological processes.

Field trips are used to introduce students to observation and description of the characteristics of rocks. The location of field trips will be linked to both the case studies and the specimens in practical classes where possible.


Practical classes are the primary opportunity for students to link investigate how rocks and minerals relate to the broader dynamic Earth processes. It provides an opportunity to practice skills needed for to make observations in the field, in hand specimens and in thin sections, and from geological maps.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Digital Exam – In the exam period a Digital Exam (MCQ) will assess the students’ knowledge and understanding of some of the key paradigms that underpin the evolution of the Earth and geological processes present day. The assessment will cover the structure and composition of the solid earth; global plate tectonics; the rock cycle and the formation of different rock types.

The practical classes will provide the primary opportunity for students to link how observations from rocks and minerals relate to the broader dynamic Earth processes. The formative assessment will provide an opportunity for students to receive feedback on their understanding and interpretation of different data and sources of information.