Overview

The module will cover the following topic areas: Earth systems: lithosphere (including plate tectonics, volcanoes), atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere and biosphere (including soils).

Global geophysical and biogeochemical cycles: the cycling of energy, water, carbon and nitrogen

Evolution of life and its impact on the environment: early atmosphere, development of single-and multicellular organisms, diversification of fauna and flora in the Palaeozoic; dinosaurs, evolution of angiosperms and mammals. Mass extinction events, ice-age to greenhouse transitions.

Earth systems concepts: homeostasis, positive and negative feedback, Gaia hypothesis.

Anthropogenic impacts upon the Earth: exploitation of natural resources (water, forests, minerals and fossil fuels).

Introducing the global climate emergency: causes, future impacts, carbon neutrality/COP, mitigation/adaptation.

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (D- to D+): Demonstrates a basic understanding of the subject but some errors present. Some inaccuracies and misconceptions evident. Limited ability to apply subject knowledge to new or different scenarios. The clarity of information presentation is weak and use of appropriate, subject-specific terminology is limited.

Acceptable (C- to C+): A clearer understanding of the subject matter. Demonstrates ability to apply subject knowledge to new or different scenarios, but with some errors. The clarity of information presentation is acceptable and use of appropriate, subject-specific terminology is developing. There is evidence of some limited engagement with published information sources.

Good (B- to B+): A good understanding of the subject matter. Very few inaccuracies and misconceptions evident. Demonstrates ability to apply subject knowledge to new or different scenarios, with few errors. The clarity of information presentation is good and use of appropriate, subject-specific terminology is well-developed. There is evidence of engagement with published information sources.

Excellent (A- and above): An excellent understanding of the subject matter with virtually no inaccuracies and misconceptions evident. Demonstrates a very good ability to apply subject knowledge to new or different scenarios, with very few errors. The clarity of information presentation is excellent and use of appropriate, subject-specific terminology is very well developed. Some evidence of reflectivity in the work produced

Learning Outcomes

• Apply concepts and principles to different scenarios.

• Demonstrate a correct understanding of appropriate methods in geoscience.

• Demonstrate an accurate understanding of geo-environmental principles and concepts.

• Present information clearly and logically using specialist vocabulary.