A-level
Geology as an A Level Option
Why you might consider Geology as an A level option;-
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no prior knowledge of the subject at GCSE is required – no longer offered at GCSE.
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an excellent record for top grades at AS and A2
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one pupil in the top 3 of the N Ireland geology rankings for the past 5 years, including first place in 2005 A level and first in AS in 2006
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100% pass rate at AS and A2 for the past 5 years
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pupils taking 4 AS subjects invariably retain Geology to A2 and drop one of the other 3 subjects
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a useful Science subject for those not studying the main sciences
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a useful Science subject for those concentrating on Arts subjects
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a complimentary subject along with the main sciences and maths
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a useful subject in conjunction with Geography – considerable areas of overlap
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a practical subject with many environmental applications
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20% coursework element at AS and A2 based on fieldwork and lab techniques
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an opportunity to become familiar with an extensive collection of minerals, rocks and fossils
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combines easily with an other combination of subjects
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offered in two option blocks allowing flexibility of choice
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a widely accepted subject as an entrance requirement for all university courses
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an essential subject for those hoping to follow a career in Environmental Science, Engineering, Geophysics or any of the 3 main sciences
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an opportunity to visit and study in spectacular geological locations throughout Ireland
Course outline;- 6 modules examined separately – 3 at AS and 3 at A2 – details given in the AS/A2 Choices Booklet. Modular exams consist of short structured answers. Essay style answers are not required.
Requirements;-
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a pass in Double Award Science – at least grade BB preferable
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GCSE Geology NOT required and not offered beyond 2005
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an interest in environmental matters
Further information;- available from –
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Mr Lynn will visit PSE classes in the next few weeks
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AS / A2 Choices Booklet for details of the 6 modules
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Talk to any of the 31 A2 Year14 pupils or the 20 AS Year13 pupils currently studying the subject
AS LEVEL
3 Units
AS Module 1
Global Tectonics and Geological structures AS 30%/A2 15%
AS Module 2
The Rock Cycle – Processes and Products AS50%/A2 25%
Practical Skills in Geology
AS 20%/A2 10%
This will involve an independent laboratory exercise based on the information collected over a few days in the field around NI/DONEGAL/S IRELAND. Internally marked but externally moderated.
A2 Level
3 Units
A2 Module 1
Economic and Environmental Geology
A2 15%
A2 Module 2
Evolution of Life, Earth and Climate A2 25%
Practical Skills in Geology
A2 10%
This involves practical and fieldwork skills basedon independent field study with information collected over a few days in the field around S DONEGAL/S IRELAND. Internally marked but externally moderated