Geology

What will be taught? 

Geology is a science and does not overlap with any other examination (for example geography) offered by WJEC.  It is a very worthwhile educational experience for all pupils whether or not they continue to study geology beyond this level.  If you want to know more about earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, rocks, minerals, fossils and geological exploration of the Earth’s resources, then this is the course for you.

The syllabus consists of six different sections which emphasise the study of important economic, social and environmental issues:

• Earth Materials, properties of minerals and rocks.
• Earth Processes, the rock cycle and igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic formation. Plate tectonics and the structure of the Earth and the monitoring and prediction of the Earth’s geological hazards.
• Earth Structures, geological maps, the dip and strike patterns of rocks.
• Earth Resources, fossil fuels, rocks and minerals, water supply and waste disposal.
• Earth History, fossils, the geological history of the United Kingdom.
• Coursework. An individual fieldwork and laboratory study of approximately 2000 words which is undertaken (except for fieldwork) in class time.

 

How will it be taught?

Geology is taught in mixed ability classes.  The subject has four periods a week.  Lessons involve the widespread use of various resources including interactive whiteboards, videos, ICT, the internet, maps and photographs, fossil, rock and mineral specimens and the development of a wide range of skills.  There will also be a number of field trips.

 

How will it be examined?

The exam board is WJEC and the examination consists of two terminal written papers and one coursework item.

Terminal Written Papers:

Paper 1 - 1 1/2 hours - This consists of structured data response questions, culminating in more open-ended sub-questions with choice.  (50% of the total assessment).

Paper 2 - 1 1/2 hours - This consists of integrated problem solving questions based upon maps, specimens (rocks, minerals and fossils), photographs and other data. (30% of the total assessment).

Coursework Component:

Candidates present one item of work for assessment.   This will consist of a geological investigation which includes fieldwork at Bude.  The coursework is undertaken and completed in class time. (20% of the total assessment).

There are two levels of the examination - (Foundation and Higher).  The Foundation Tier covers grades C to G.  The Higher Tier covers Grades A* to D.  It is envisaged that all pupils will take the Higher Tier.