To introduce small- and large-scale geological structures.

To introduce the principles of stress and strain.

To introduce stereographic projection techniques.

To introduce the expressions of geological contacts on maps.

To introduce the representation of geological features on maps.

To introduce the analysis of geological maps histories.

To introduce the skill of creating geological cross-sections.

(LO1) Knowledge and understanding

On completion of this module you should:

Know the geometry and nomenclature of geological structures;

Understand the appropriate classification schemes for geological structures;

Understand how selected small - scale structures may be used to interpret the geometry of large - scale structures.

(LO2) Intellectual abilities

On completion of this module you should:

Have developed strategies for the description and identification of geological structures;

Have developed strategies for the analysis of geological contacts displayed on maps;

Have an appreciation of stress and strain, and the differences between them.

(LO3) Practical skills

On completion of this module you should be competent in:

The use of a compass - clinometer;

The plotting and manipulation of orientation data using a stereographic projection;

The portrayal of three - dimensional structures in two - dimensions;

The interpretation of two - dimensional representations of three - dimensional structures;

The preparation of cross - sections and generalised stratigraphical columns from the information displayed on geological maps;

The analysis of stratigraphical, structural and temporal relationships from the information displayed on geological maps.

(LO4) General transferable skills

On completion of this module you should have:

Learned to incorporate independent research and reading into your studies.
Practised how to cite research material in your academic writing.
Developed a beginning skill in academic writing.
Learned how to engage in effective group work.

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Adaptability

(S3) Numeracy

(S4) Communication Skills

Lecture and discussion topics will include:

Introduction to structural geology
Geometrical Analysis
Deformation, stress, and strain
Faults and fractures
Normal, contractional, and strike-slip faults
Geological folds
Shear zones
Lineations and foliations
Fault rocks and shear sense indicators
Reading geological maps, generalised vertical sections, constructing geological histories.

Technical skills training includes:

Use of the compass-clinometer
Introduction to stereographic projection techniques
Stress orientation determination using stereonets
Quantifying fold geometry using stereonets
Analysis of regional fold structures on geological maps
Introduction to structure contours on geological maps
Drawing cross - sections using structure contours
Construction of cross-sections without structure contours
Understanding faults on a geological map
Understanding unconformities on a geologic al map

Training in transferable skills includes:

How to structure and write a scientific report
How to cite existing work, texts, and research papers in your writing
Teamwork via group exercises in interpreting geological maps

Teaching method 1 : Laboratory Classes
Each week we will have 3 hour laboratory sessions to illustrate theoretical concepts and develop practical skills involving structural geology and geological mapping. These sessions will also allow students to ask in-person questions about any module topics that they find more challenging.

Teaching Method 2: Discussion and Workshop Sessions
Each week we will have 1 hour sessions to discuss theoretical and practical work done that week, as well as learn about structural geology from guest speakers, and perform group work that supports geological mapping skill development.

Teaching Method 3: Asynchronous Pre-recorded Online Lectures
Description:
Module topics will be introduced in short (20-240 minute) pre-recorded lectures. Each weeks lectures will be tied to the laboratory and discussion sessions of that same week.