A-LEVEL Earth Science (Geology)

A-LEVEL

Geology is the earth's story, discovering the powerful processes that have helped to shape its mountains, oceans, life and climate over billions of years. In Geology, we strive to make these processes visible, through analysing what they have left behind; the rocks, fossils and landscapes. The course covers the theories of plate tectonics, geohazards and rock formation, some of the fundamental principles of geology. From this, we also explore the fossil record to uncover the evolution of life on earth, discover how climate change has transformed our world and delve into the economic geology of hydrogeology, mineral exploration and hydrocarbons. This is a course for anyone interested in our earth's deep history and is fundamental to develop the tools and knowledge to best tackle the challenges of its future.

Subject requirements:

Minimum GCSE of 5 in Geography and a 5 in a Science subject.

Teacher to contact: Mr C McConnaughie and Miss S Makepeace
Humanities Area Coordinator - Dr R Mills 
Humanities Curriculum Assistant

Course Content

The A-Level includes the following components:

  • Development of practical skills in Earth Science, including laboratory and fieldwork investigations
  • Minerals and rocks
  • Fossils and time
  • The structure of the Earth
  • Plate tectonics, geological structures and geohazards
  • Mining geology
  • Engineering geology
  • Quaternary Geology

Geology is a practical course, offering opportunities to explore the subject outside the classroom. We offer a one-day field trip to Hunstanton in Year 12, and a residential visit to the Dorset Jurassic Coast in Year 13. 

Assessment Criteria

The full A-Level course is assessed at the end of Year 13 by three synoptic examinations, totalling 6 hours. These include a range of question types, such as multiple choice, short answer and extended response answers.

Exam Board: WJEC

Are you interested in:

  • Fossils?
  • Evolution of life on Earth?
  • Mass extinctions?
  • Plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes?
  • The causes and effects of climate change?

Leading to a career in:

  • Natural Hazard Management
  • Mining
  • Engineering Geology
  • Water Supply Management
  • Environmental and Land Management

This subject goes well with:

  • Geography
  • Environmental Science
  • Chemistry

Click below to learn about the course from Earth Science (Geology) student, Poppy.

 

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  1. Getting Ready for Earth Science

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