Module Code - Title:
GY4002
-
INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module introduces students to the key principles that underline physical geographical processes that shaped the natural environment.
Syllabus:
The module introduces students to the Earth's physical features and how natural processes and patterns have shaped the planet. Students will be introduced to geomorphology, hydrology, glaciology, biogeography, climatology, meteorology, pedology, paleogeography, costal geography, quaternary science, and landscape ecology, geomatics, and environmental geography.
Themes such as geology and tectonics; oceans; atmospheric processes; Global climate and weather; landform evolution; soils, sediments and sedimentation; catchment hydrology; fluvial geomorphology; coastal geomorphology; Glacial geomorphology; Ecological processes; Freshwater ecology; the Quaternary; the Holocene; contemporary climate change; vegetation and environmental change will be explored.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the nature and scope of Physical Geography;
- Employ the methods and techniques used by Physical Geographers;
- Identify the Earth's major natural systems.
- Describe how the Earth's major systems have changed in the past over a range of timescales;
- Illustrate the importance of Physical Geographical knowledge for human activity and environmental management.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
- develop an appreciation of the significance of physical geography as a key aspect of today's world;
- value independent learning and collaboration.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
This module will be delivered through a combination of lecturers, tutorials and self directed learning. Students will develop the skills to analyse readings, improve their capacity for critical assessment, consider peer comments and present their own work. Committed participation is essential for developing cognitive and presentation skills that hone their attributes as articulate, creative and original thinkers.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Strahler, Alan H (2013)
Introducing physical geography
, 6th edition, Wiley-Blackwell,
Smithson, P., Addison, K. and Atkinson, K. (2008)
Smithson, P., Fundamentals of the Physical
Environment
, 4th edition London, Routledge
Park, C. (2001)
The Environment: Principles and Applications
, 2nd ed. London: Routledge.
Other Relevant Texts:
Summerfield, M. A. (1991)
Global geomorphology : an introduction to the study of landforms /
Global geomorphology : an introduction to the study of landforms
, Harlow, Prentice Hall
Holden, J. (ed.) (2017)
An introduction to physical geography and the environment
, 4th edition, Upper Saddle River,
Pearson
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
BAULARUFA - ARTS
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
gourav.misra@ul.ie