To introduce the student to earth materials and their identification and portrayal on geological maps. To introduce basic concepts in Engineering Geology, including Site Investigation.

On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
1 Know the common igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rock types
2 Construct simple geological cross-sections from maps
3 Identify key basic geological information from field-observations
4 Provide engineering solutions to basic geological problems

Main topics to be covered comprise:
• Chemical and physical composition of the earth's crust.
• The formation of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks: their chemical and mineral composition and classification; igneous structures and field relationships; identification of common rock-types in hand specimens; surface processes.
• Physical and chemical weathering and the development of soils; the composition formation and engineering characteristics of clay minerals; denudation, erosion cycles and landscape formation in humid, arid and glacial climates.
• Total Geological History: the model approach and engineering significance.
• Structural geology: folding, fracture and unconformities; relationships between outcrops and topography.
• Mapping: section drawing on simple maps and the solution of three-point problems.
• Stratigraphic principles and an introduction to the stratigraphy of the British Isles.
• Interpretation of British Geological Survey (BGS) maps and the construction of geological cross-sections.
• Principles of field geology for engineering purposes.
• Site Investigation principles and design.
• Sources of aggregate and other construction materials.

Learning and teaching will be by lectures, class-based exercises and field work. A number of geological field excursions will be an integral part of this Module. As such, the Module delivers:
• Fundamental information of critical importance to civil engineering/engineering design.
• A mix of theory, class practical and field-based exercises.
• Real-world examples, which are then built upon in class practical-based exercises
• Field-based observations involve tasks that have been built upon the taught and class practical-based exercises to ensure the skills taught can be demonstrated in a field setting.

Students are required to pass all components in order to pass the course.

Exam - 70%
LO - 1,2,4.
Pass mark - 40%
2 hours.
Closed book exam.

Report - 30%
LO - 3, 4.
Pass mark - 40%
1500 words.
Report on field site visit.

Nature of FORMATIVE assessment supporting student learning:
Class-based exercises, Mock Exam.