Geology
BackHead of Department: Mr T Ash
The study of Geology provides an essential contribution to an understanding and appreciation of the Earth. It examines the form and structure of the Earth and the development of life on Earth.
Uniquely, it introduces the concept of the vastness of geological time which, together with the study of the rock record and fossils, leads to a deeper understanding of the origin of the planet and the significance of life on Earth. A study of natural hazards can lead to reasoned and responsible judgements on the value of human life.
The school benefits from a wealth of samples donated by Greenwich University. [Updated 2024/25]
Years 7, 8 and 9
In Years 7, 8 and 9 Geography and Science include topics related to the study of geology such as the rock cycle, erosion and weathering, plate tectonics and natural hazards.
GCSE: Years 10 and 11
The exams consist of two papers instead of coursework as follows:
Component 1: Geological Principles
On-screen examination: 1 hour 15 minutes 50% of qualification.
An on-screen assessment consisting of data and stimulus response questions. This assessment requires multiple-choice, short, structured and extended writing answers relating to all the GCSE Geology subject content outlined in this specification. A data sheet is used in this assessment.
Component 2: Investigative Geology
Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 50% of qualification.
A written assessment consisting of data and stimulus response questions. This assessment requires short, structured and extended writing answers to investigate the geology of an area shown on a simplified geological map. This assessment is wholly based on the area covered by the geological map. A data sheet is used in this assessment.
The course content comprises:
Key Idea 1: Rock exposures contain evidence of how rocks were formed and subsequently deformed.
Key Idea 2: Major concepts and techniques underpin our current understanding of the Earth and its history.
Key Idea 3: Comparisons of the Earth with other planetary bodies within the solar system provide evidence for the origin and evolution of both.
Key Idea 4: Human interaction with the Earth can increase or reduce risk.