Geology AS Level

Geology AS Level
Geology involves the study of the processes that operate on or below the Earth's surface and covers a wide range of topics. These include plate tectonics, geohazards (earthquakes and volcanoes), palaeontology (fossils), petrology (igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks) and earth resources (fossil fuels, metal deposits, water and engineering geology).

What does the course involve?
Topics covered include earthquakes, volcanoes, the present pattern of continents and oceans, the rock cycle and igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and the processes producing them. It is taught using a combination of theory, practical and fieldwork and is definitely a hands-on subject. You will develop a range of skills both written and practical, carrying out scientific investigation observing, measuring and recording geological data. Work is carried out individually, in pairs or in groups both in the class and in the field. You will learn to research, produce written reports, process data using software applications, interpret geological information including rock and mineral specimens, and understand geological hazards.

What will I study?
This course consists of three modules: Unit 1: Global Tectonics.

Unit 2: Rocks - Processes and Products.

Unit 3: Coursework - practical skills in Geology.

How is the course assessed?

• Examination at the end of the course
• Examination at the end of each unit/module
• Coursework

What else do I need to know?
What will this lead to?
In the first instance students may progress to the A2 course which covers environmental geology and the evolution of life, earth and climate. There are a wide range of career opportunities in exploration, the petroleum industry, mining, engineering and geology, many involving HE courses. Each module is assessed by a written paper containing compulsory short structured and extended prose questions. In addition, the F793 module also contains a compulsory coursework component based on fieldwork and the analysis of sediments in the second module. During each module students complete a range of short structured and extended prose questions as part of ongoing assessment. In addition, a range of practical exercises and research/presentation assignments are completed either individually or as part of small groups.

What other costs are there?
Supplementary Costs
Band A (£0 - £50)
Exam Board = OCR

This information is believed to be correct. Cirencester College continually updates and reviews its provision to ensure that it meets the needs of the community. Therefore the right to amend, change or delete learning programmes, accreditation routes or terms and conditions relating to entitlement to study is reserved at all times. We aim to provide open access to a comprehensive range of high quality education and training for the whole community over the age of 16 regardless of race, class, belief, language, gender, sexual orientation, disability, previous educational attainment or particular circumstances.

Entry Requirements

You will need grade C in FIVE of the following (inc. short GCSEs) : English Language or Literature/Humanities (History,Geography,RS,Sociology,Psychology)/Business/Science (Core and Additional OR triple)/Maths/Foreign Language - If that does not include GCSE English Language, you must take this course at college and achieve a C to progress to A2.
You must achieve a grade C in any GCSE taken which is directly related to this AS level unless a higher grade is specified.