Module ENS-1100:
Earth Systems and Processes

Overview

This is a module that introduces and explores the key concepts relating to the geo-environmental sciences and the study of the physical environment. The module focuses on study of earth systems and the earth processes occurring within them. An important theme throughout the module is a focus on the and the connectivity of earth processes occurring within the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and the biosphere.

Key module topics may include:

1. Earth systems and earth processes: introduction and key concepts
2. The Geosphere: key geological concepts and processes.
3. Weathering processes
4. The atmosphere: global and regional atmospheric circulation
5. Atmosphere-Ocean interaction: influence on climate, ENSO & NAO cycles & cyclones
6. The hydrosphere: introduction to the hydrological cycle, run-off generation & basic principles of hydrology.
7. Glacial environments: introduction to ice-mass description, ice mass movement and glacial geomorphology.
8. The biosphere: introduction to soils
9. The biosphere: introduction to biogeography
10. Introduction to global biogeochemical cycles: the Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Grade D- (42%) to D+ (48%): Students Demonstrate a basic understanding of the Earth's systems and their processes based on individual components of the directly taught programme. Some factual inaccuracies evident but overall understanding is demonstrated.

-good -Grade B- (62%) to B+ (68%): Students demonstrate a good understanding of the Earth's systems and processes, including an ability to appreciate simple linkages between the different components included in the module and some evidence of enquiry and extension of a knowledge base beyond the directly taught programme. No major omissions or inaccuracies in factual understanding and demonstrates a good grasp of theoretical and conceptual elements. Evidence of good integration of information from a variety of sources.

-excellent -Grade A- (74%) and above: Students demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Earth's systems and processes, including an ability to appreciate complex linkages between the different components included in the module and evidence of enquiry and a knowledge base that extends well beyond the directly taught programme. Thorough and critical understanding of key underlying concepts is demonstrated. No factual errors are evident.

Grade C- (52%) to C+ (58%): Students Demonstrate a basic understanding of the Earth's systems and their processes based on individual components of the directly taught programme. No major omissions or inaccuracies in factual understanding but lacking critical analysis.

Learning Outcomes

• Accurately apply the concepts of temporal and spatial scales in relation to the study of earth processes and systems.

• Accurately explain theories, paradigms, concepts and principles governing physical processes occurring within the Earth system.

• Explain and exemplify endogenic and exogenic earth processes.

• Show accurate knowledge of the inter-relationship of processes occurring within earth systems.