AS / A2 Geology

WHY TAKE THIS COURSE?
Geology is an A level science course and combines well with all Science subjects, Archaeology, Geography, and History. Geology introduces students to events past and present at the Earth’s surface and the processes that create the present pattern of continents and oceans and the formation of economic deposits of metals and energy resources. Geology also helps you to understand natural geological hazards, as well as those caused by human activity, and the means of predicting and controlling them.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?
AS - Structure of the Earth, earthquakes, volcanoes and how rocks respond to stress. We also study the three major rock groups in detail to find out what they tell us about the Earth’s history. There are also assessed fieldwork visits to the Wirral and Stoke on Trent.
A2 - You apply the knowledge gained from the AS modules. You will study fossils including dinosaurs and ammonites and use them to look at how former life evolved and what they can tell us about Earth’s history. There is also a focus on engineering geology, water supply, energy resources and metals. There are also assessed fieldwork visits to North Wales and Heysham.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
In both your AS and A2 courses there will be one paper in January (30%) followed by another in June (50%). There is an assessed fieldwork activity (10%) and an evaluative paper sat at an appropriate point during the course (10%). There is no coursework component.

WHAT SKILLS AND SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?
The ability to learn and recall factual information is essential. The course will develop scientific knowledge from the three major disciplines and therefore you must have at least a grade C in GCSE Science, but there are no other specific GCSEs needed for this course.

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Many students have gone on to study Geology at University. Possible careers include Environmental Management or travelling the world working with natural resources. Geology is a Science course and will also help you obtain a place on all Science related degree courses. It is also possible to obtain an apprenticeship with organisations like the Environment Agency or Centrica.

PRIESTLEY EXTRA
We recently visited Iceland along with the Geography students. We visited glaciers, beaches, geothermal pools, craters, waterfalls and geysers. We hope to visit again in 2013.