Shelley College: Geology

Head of Department: Miss A Payne

Geology is the branch of science concerned with the structure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth and with the exploitation of the mineral and energy resources that it contains. Geology is ideally suited to fulfil the educational purpose of demonstrating the relevance of science to society. Geology crosses traditional subject boundaries and forms part of more than one of the separate science disciplines.

These specifications are designed to cover a wide range of geological topics, incorporating up-to-date information. The specification introduces candidates to events past and present at the surface of the Earth and the processes which create the present pattern of continents and oceans and the formation of economic deposits of metals and energy resources.

The study of earthquakes, volcanoes and plate margins, together with the rock cycle and its processes, follow on from work in the National Curriculum: Science. The use of geological theories to interpret geological events in the world today is included.

Examples of modules taught: Foundation Geology, Geological Skills, Geology and the Environment, Geological Investigations.