Map and Thesis

• Credit value: 60 credits at Level 6
• Convenor: Steve Hirons
• Assessment: a 5000-word dissertation (90%) and oral presentation (10%)

This module will give you experience of independent work on the geological mapping of an area and the preparation of a geological report.

You are expected to spend a total of six weeks preparing your geological map. The area will be chosen in consultation with a supervisor and its size will depend on various factors such as topography and geological complexity.

In the final year you prepare your thesis, and may be visited in the field by your supervisor who will also give advice on cartographic techniques, content, etc. Two copies of 1:10 000 maps of the area will be supplied by the School.

By the end of this module, you will have:

• knowledge and understanding of the geology of the area you have studied, including the processes which have formed the rocks and the geological history
• knowledge and understanding of the three-dimensional relationships between geological units in the field and the chronological and spatial sequence of geological events that have occurred
• knowledge of the petrology and structures of the rocks in order to develop an understanding of the processes that have formed them
• used geological equipment to measure aspects of the geology, take structural measurements and navigate on a topographic map
• used and understand topographic maps
• kept a notebook of your method and findings
• produced a field map of your findings
• constructed geological cross-sections
• produced a final map using pertinent drafting skills
• written a scientific report detailing methods and findings.