Field Geology and Geological Maps - 2019 entry

You cannot call yourself a geologist until you’ve learned how to describe and interpret rocks and their structures in the field. In this module you will be blessed with the opportunity to do this using the world class Cornish geology on your doorstep. We will teach you how to be a field geologist using a combination of class-room and field-based exercises, including nine one-day field classes to a range of iconic localities that can be reached with no more than one hour’s drive, and you’ll be home in time for tea on every occasion! In a series of practical classes, you will also learn how to decode the geological history of an area by reading and interpreting a geological map. This module culminates in a week-long field course in Pembrokeshire where you get to consolidate and expand on the skills you have learned throughout the year.

Field Geology and Geological Maps aims to introduce Level 1 students to the recording, analysis and synthesis of geological field data. In addition, the module also introduces the principles of geological mapping, the interpretation of geological maps and the preparation of geological cross sections. By the end of the module, the students will be confidently able to collect field data from a range of geological settings, interpret geological processes and test hypotheses on the basis of these data. Students will also be able to understand how to read geological maps and construct cross-sections

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 prepare clear detailed legible field notes, sketches, graphic sedimentary logs, and small scale plans/maps and cross-sections;
2 describe a range of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rock types based on the field identification of minerals and the recognition of grain/crystal size, texture and fabric;
3 measure and record planar and linear structural data.  Describe and record folds, foliations and faults;
4 locate yourself accurately using a compass and base map, and develop the ability to "read" a base map to locate yourself;
5 understand the basic principles of geological mapping and stratigraphy including lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy and chronostratigraphy;
6 describe macrofossils and trace fossils within their sedimentological context in the field;
7 describe and record sedimentary structures and understand their significance in terms of identifying the younging direction in a deformed area;
8 have a general understanding of field safety issues and risk assessment;
9 understand the application of lithostratigraphy in geological mapping;
10 understand how geology is represented on geological maps and how outcrop patterns reflect the interaction between the shape and orientation of geological units and topography;
11 demonstrate how geological maps can be used to interpret the geology and geological history of an area;
12 construct geological cross-sections from geological map data;
13 interpret the geology of several areas of the UK using geological maps.

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

14 transfer information gained through formal taught modules (e.g. Geology) to a field-based scenario;
15 visualise in three-dimensions.

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and  Knowledge:

16 problem solve;
17 synthesise a range of data;
18 work with and relate to others
19 collect data and communicate in a variety of formats.

Geological maps

This part of the module develops material covered in practicals 8-9 of the Geology module (CSM 1030) in Semester 1. Weeks 1-3 are based on problem maps while weeks 4-9 use real geological maps at a variety of scales.

Topics covered are:

- simple models of outcrop geometries associated with horizontal, vertical and inclined layers and those generated in folded and faulted sequences;

- unconformities and procedures for deciphering geological histories from geological maps;

Lectures cover:

- health and safety and first aid; geological field equipment; data recording - notes, sketches, graphic logs; hand specimen recognition of rocks and minerals; the compass clinometer and the measurement of planar and linear features; definition of mappable units; data recording on field slips;

Skills developed during fieldwork include:

- locating oneself on a map;
- description of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks;
- recording structural data and the description of folds and faults; description of sedimentary structures; description of macrofossils and trace fossils in the field;
- data recording on field slips, maps, notebooks etc;
- preparing geological cross sections;
- synthesising field data and interpretation.

As above 1 piece of CW 75% and/or 1 Exam 25%

Basic reading:                                                                                                                                                               

Lisle, R.J. 1995. (see reading list for details)

Maltman, R. 1998. (see reading list for details)                                                                                                                                                                               

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Web based and electronic resources:

UK Geological Maps: www.bgs.ac.uk/education/geology_of_britain/home.html 

The British Geological Survey Geology of Britain web pages: www.bgs.ac.uk/education/makeamap/home.html

Reading list for this module: