A Level - Geology

Course Summary

Subject: Geology

Course Title: A Level - Geology

Course Types: Sixth Form

Course Level: A-Level

Course Description

Introduction and Course Description

Geology is above all a problem-solving science subject and involves the study of the processes that have formed Planet Earth over millions of years. It is important to know how our planet works in order to manage its resources effectively and to cope with the hazards and changes that are happening to the Earth around us. There has never been a more interesting time to be involved in the science that studies the Earth!

You will study a range of topics concerning Planet Earth, including the structure of the Earth, how the Earth’s plates move and how these movements cause hazards for us. You will learn about the clues contained in igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks that allow us to work out how they formed. In addition, you will study fossils which reveal the development of life on Earth, how the Earth has provided geological resources essential for us to live, and evidence for previous times of climate change on Earth.

Fieldwork is an essential part of Geology. You will go on a number of fieldtrips, visiting places where rocks can be easily seen at the Earth’ surface. Once you have studied Geology for a while you will be able to collect information on your fieldtrips that will allow you to work out what the Earth was like millions of years ago.

Component 1: Geological Investigations

This is a practical exam, requiring candidates to describe and interpret geological information from diagrams, photographs, maps, and hand specimens of rocks, minerals and fossils.

Section A: Two questions requiring short and structured answers.

Section B: An investigation of the geology of an area shown on an accompanying geological map.

Written exam: 2 hours 15 mins 35% of A Level

Component 2: Geological Principles and Processes

This exam mainly requires candidates to draw on their theoretical knowledge from the key ideas in geology in order to interpret information, draw conclusions and explain observations. There are six questions requiring short, structured and extended answers.

Written exam: 1 hour 45 mins 30% of A Level

Component 3: Geological Applications

This exam requires candidates to apply their understanding to solve problems in the context of three geological themes:

Section A: Geohazards - Two questions requiring short and structured answers.

Section B: Geological map applications - An investigation of the geology of an area shown on an accompanying geological map.

Section C: Three question from the chosen option module, requiring short, structured and extended answers. We will study the Geology of the Lithosphere module.

Written exam: 2 hours 35% of A Level

Practical Endorsement

A number of practical “competencies” reported separately by your teacher and not contributing to the final grade.

Assessed by teacher during practical- and field-work.

Future Opportunities

There are a wide range of careers that geology students can progress on to including those involving:

• developing a sustainable future for ourselves and the Earth
• exploring for and extracting useful materials from the Earth
• protecting the environment from the effects of human activity
• monitoring and reducing the impacts of geological hazards such as earthquakes and volcanoes
• research into the geological history of Earth and other planets
• how we and the Earth might respond to climate change

Geology draws from some concepts in other sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Environmental Science) and Geography and applies them to problems related to the Earth and the way humans interact with it. Geology, therefore, makes the perfect complementary subject for those interested in applied science and solving real-world problems. As such, students who have studied Geology develop many transferable skills and are actively sought out by a wide variety of employers.

Course Entry Guidelines

Prior study of Geology at GCSE level is useful but not a prerequisite. As a science subject, Geology requires the application of mathematical skills, but does not require the study of A Level Maths. Alternative arrangements for fieldwork investigation (namely, online “virtual” investigation) can be made for students with additional mobility needs.

See what career this course can give you access