Geology AS/A Level

A Geology course provides an opportunity to study the formation and development of the Earth, its resources and the biodiversity that has existed throughout its history.  It is a broad based science subject, involving practical and theoretical aspects that extend ideas encountered in GCSE science.  It would combine well with the study of Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry.  No previous knowledge of Geology is needed to study this subject.

The course examines the development of the Earth, tectonics, the production of rocks, environmental geology, the fossil record and evolution.  It also encourages the development of practical and evaluative skills. 

The AS course involves the following units:

Unit 1: Global Tectonics
The structure of the Earth; earthquakes; continental drift, seafloor spreading and plate tectonics; and geological structures.

Unit 2: Rocks – Processes and Products
The rock cycle, igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.

Unit 3: Practical Skills 1

The A2 course involves:

Unit 4: Environmental Geology 
The earth’s resources, water supply and mineral deposits; and engineering geology.

Unit 5: Evolution of Life, Earth and Climate 
The formation and morphology of fossils; fossil evidence of evolution; climate change.

Unit 6: Practical Skills 2.
In both AS and A2, Practical Skills are internally assessed and the other units involve external exams.