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Dynamic Earth - ENV00001C

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  • Department: Environment and Geography
  • Module co-ordinator: Prof. Mark Hodson
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23 to Spring Term 2022-23

Module aims

The purpose of this module is to teach students how our planet ‘works’, by providing them with an introduction to the dynamics of Earth’s spheres, including the geosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. The module covers the place of Earth in the solar system, dating methods, rocks, plate tectonics, volcanism, origin and structure of the atmosphere and links with life, and ice-sheet and ocean processes. It also introduces the role of weather and both natural and man-made climate change. Special attention is paid to the oceans, so that by the end of the module, students will have a significant understanding of tides, waves, the ocean floor and links with climate. Additionally, the module includes a practical on rock identifications, a practical on ocean processes and a fieldtrip to the North York Moors.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module students will:

  • Understand, and be able to explain, key terrestrial, climatic and oceanic processes.
  • Be more aware of the dynamic nature of our planet.
  • Understand the causes of extreme events and geohazards.
  • Appreciate the Earth’s ‘spheres’ and understand how they interact.

Generic / Employability Skills:

  • A fundamental grounding in basic Earth processes
  • Field-based skills for making geological observations
  • Identification of rock types

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Dynamic Earth Open Exam		 8 hours 100

Special assessment rules

None

Additional assessment information

Formative feedback includes an on-line quiz using example exam questions and an exercise linked to the rock practical.

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Online Exam - 24 hrs (Centrally scheduled)
Dynamic Earth Open Exam		 8 hours 100

Module feedback

Formative feedback includes an on-line quiz using example exam questions and an exercise linked to the rock practical. Feedback on the fieldtrip is provided via the VLE and via lectures. There will also be a revision session to help prepare for the examination and a feedback session after the exam in the summer term.

Indicative reading

Marshak, S. (2015) Earth: Portrait of a Planet. 5th edition. Norton & Co


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.