Course Catalogue

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A field-based introduction to the geology of Scotland and its key role in the development of Earth Sciences as a discipline.

ca. 10 days of field teaching and 4 days lectures/practical and independent study.

Normally completion of at least 2 years of an undergraduate Geology/Earth Sciences degree.

EARTH4002 Portfolio A

None

Portfolio of field and practical data and their interpretation (70%), 10 minute group presentation (10%), lab assessments (20%)

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

This is a summer school for international students and is largely field based. It is therefore not possible to offer reassessment.

To demonstrate the geological history of Scotland.

To outline the principal methods of determining geological time and the development of geological thinking.

To demonstrate the principles of terrane analysis in the British Caledonides.

To provide an introduction to advanced field observation and geological mapping, cross-discipline thinking and interpretation of field-based data.

To provide instruction, practice and feedback in the skills of giving short technical seminars to groups of peers.
To provide opportunities to develop teamwork skills in the handling of tasks and the solution of problems.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. take measurement of planar and linear structural features (bedding, cleavage, folds, lineations)

2. record, interpret and compile field measurements into maps and sections

3. explain the geological history of Scotland

4. summarise the evidence for exotic crustal terranes, particularly with regard to the Caledonides in the British Isles

5. describe the techniques used to determine geological ages

6. explain the development of key concepts in geological thinking

7. prepare, structure and deliver seminar presentations, including diagrams, digital images, and sustain a point in discussion

Students must attend the residential field classes and submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.