Geology

EXAM SPECIFICATION: OCR H414                                                                    

https://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-and-a-level/geology-h014-h414-from-2017/

A Level Geology will introduce you to the science which studies the whole Earth. It covers a range of real life geological contexts (e.g. geohazards in Britain and the evolution of flight) and the challenges that face contemporary geoscience. Around half of all UK Earth Science undergraduates studied Geology A level and it is also an accepted science qualification for progression to other science courses (including marine science), archaeology and civil engineering.

You will learn about geology in a range of different contexts. The course assumes no prior experience of geology but builds on GCSE science concepts that it applies to the study of the Earth to develop an understanding of concepts that have both an academic and practical application.

View the PowerPoint below to get an overview of the course.  Click on the speakers for an explanation from the Head of Subject, Mr Starr.

STUDENT VIDEO: Current student, Joe Middleton, describes what it's like to study A Level Geology.  

The Course

Year 12

• Module 1: Development of practical skills in geology
• Module 2: Foundations of geology
• Module 3: Global tectonics
• Module 4: Interpreting the past

Year 13

• Module 1: Development of practical skills in geology
• Module 5: Petrology and economic geology
• Module 6: Geohazards
• Module 7: Basin analysis

Skills

• Observing
• Recording
•  Interpreting
• Analysing
• Evaluating
  
• Measuring
• Drawing 
• Presentation skills
• Research and independent learning
  

Examinations

All A-level exams are at the end of Year 13:

• Fundamentals of geology (01) 2 hour 15 minutes written paper
• Scientific literacy in geology (02) 2 hour 15 minutes written paper
• Practical skills in geology (03) 1 hour 30 minutes written paper
• Practical endorsement (04) non - exam assessment, reported separately  

Enrichment

• Lake District field course, residential (October, Year 13)
• Day field courses to sites of geological interest
• Hawaii and San Francisco, Grand Canyon or Italian Volcanoes (optional)
• Student-led  school Geology Society
• Discounted membership to the Geological Society of London 
• National Schools Geology Competition

For further details, please contact Mr Starr, Head of Geology,  pstarr@bishopstopford.com