Geology
Details of the Examination Specification
Geology WJEC Eduqas A Level
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
Geology is the Science of the Earth so students should have minimum grades of CC for IGCSE Science or equivalent on entry to the course. It is also recommended that students have GCSE grades C or above in Mathematics and English. The course is taught from first principles so no prior knowledge of Geology is needed. Students will be expected to carry out supported independent study to consolidate their knowledge and understanding of the course content. Homework will be set and marked on a regular basis to give students individual feedback on their progress.
What will I learn on this A Level course?
A level Geology investigates the Earth’s origin, structure, composition, processes and history (including evolution of life), using qualitative (observational) and quantitative (numerical) methods.
The course develops knowledge and understanding of Earth Science through three main concepts:
An understanding of the Earth’s composition, evolution and sustainable development.
The key ideas of uniformitarianism (‘the present is the key to the past’), focusing on changes over geological time and plate tectonics.
The cycling of matter and flows of energy between the solid Earth, the Earth's surface, the hydrosphere, the atmosphere and the biosphere
What examinations will I take to get my qualification?
The course consists of 4 units of assessment:
Components 1 and 2 are based on knowledge and understanding of the Fundamentals of Geology and Interpreting the Geological Record units.
1. Geological Investigations
Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes 35%
Stimulus response questions and an investigation of the geology of an area shown on a simplified map.
2. Geological Principles and Processes
Written examination: 1 hour 45 minutes 30%
Stimulus response questions based on geology shown in photographs, maps, diagrams and graphs.
3. Applications of Geology
Written examination: 2 hours 35%
Based on geological themes – Geohazards, Geological map applications and one option from: Quaternary geology; Geological evolution of Britain; Geology of the lithosphere.
4. Practical Endorsement A non-examination pass or fail assessment of practical competency.
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
Some students study Geology having decided on a geological career, but this is not true of the majority of our students. Many study Geology simply because they are interested in the subject or because it complements their other subjects. Geology has particular links with Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, Mathematics, Physics, as well as Computer Science and Economics. Students will have the opportunity to gain an in-depth knowledge of planet Earth and develop a broad range of skills including data analysis and interpretation, problem-solving, research and reporting findings.
Practical work both in the laboratory and the field are an intrinsic part of the course and form the basis of the practical endorsement. We have an extensive collection of rocks, minerals and fossils and run field courses to sites of geological interest around the Island.
For students who are interested in:
Studying Earth Science to gain: observational skills; the ability to use practical investigation methods; problem-solving skills; and the ability to communicate scientific ideas.
Leading to a career in:
Geology or a related subject, including: archaeology, civil engineering, environmental work, geophysics, government agencies, hydrogeology, mining and quarrying, natural hazards agencies, oil industry, scientific research, and waste disposal.