Understanding of Earth science is fundamental to Geography, and is a core part of the Geography curriculum at all levels. This module introduces students to the key processes and materials in Earth science. It considers the range and origin of these materials, and will provide students with the skills to describe and analyse these materials and the knowledge to understand their development and meaning. It will also demonstrate the importance of earth science through its impact on society, considering the influence of geological processes and features on human geographic processes, including settlement patterns, agriculture, and economic activity.

This module will introduce the fundamentals of earth science, and how it influences society. Through exploration of the geological history of Ireland and beyond, students will consider how geological evolution has helped to shape human geography, including settlement patterns, agriculture, and economic activity. Topics to be covered may include the formation of the solar system and the Earth; the structure of the Earth and plate tectonics; igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, minerals, and processes; environments and landscapes; the fossil record and biogeography; economic geology, including mining and petroleum geology; and geoenvironmental engineering and management.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Explain the process of plate tectonics, and the formation of rocks in different tectonic settings and environments 2. Describe and identify various geological materials, using standard Earth science techniques and terminology, and interpret their origins 3. Use the principles of stratigraphy, the geologic time scale, and information from geological maps and other sources to describe the geological history of an area 4. Relate patterns in human geography to causal geological processes and features

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 5. Integrate information from disparate sources in earth science and human geography

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This module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, laboratory sessions, and self directed learning. The background knowledge and conceptual material will be provided through a series of short lectures, supported by follow-up directed reading and indpendent learning, further developed and applied in a substantial practical laboratory component. The integration of lecture and laboratory practical sessions will form the basic strategy to ensure that students have the opportunity to acquire and begin to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills base. Directed independent study leading to independent learning are key elements in this strategy. Students will develop the skills to analyse readings, and to improve their capacity for critical assessment through integration of concepts from Earth science and human geography, highlighting real-world challenges. Directed reading for the module will include recent research, while active research topics will be integrated throughout the lecture and laboratory components.