GV1GS-Geomorphology

Module Provider: Geography and Environmental Science
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Alison Macleod
Email: alison.macleod@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module provides an overview of the basics of geomorphology, that is, the processes and landforms which operate upon and make up, the surface of the Earth. It is designed to give a solid foundation for first year physical geographers and environmental scientists, but it will also benefit all those who are simply interested in knowing more about the surface morphology of our wonderful planet.

Aims:
This module is designed to provide the basis for an understanding of global geomorphology, that is, the study of landforms and the processes that shape them. Upon successful completion students will be able to tackle more advanced geomorphology modules (both theoretical and applied).

Assessable learning outcomes:

On completion of this module it is expected that a student will be able to:

• Provide a reasoned account of the nature and variety of geomorphological form and process


• Give a detailed explanation of geomorphological processes in a variety of environments


• Critically evaluate different approaches to geomorphological investigation.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The topics covered in geomorphology will include an introduction, weathering geomorphology, sediments, hillslope geomorphology, fluvial geomorphology, karst geomorphology, aeolian geomorphology, coastal geomorphology, glacial geomorphology, periglacial geomorphology, mountain geomorphology, tropical geomorphology, and Quaternary geomorphology.

Global context:

Case studies will accompany every lecture drawing on example from around the globe. Practical exercises will provide students with the opportunity to virtually visit a range of locations including the Himalayas, The Alps, Namib Desert, South China Karst alongside utilising examples from within the UK. 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Teaching will be via screencasts, lectures, videos (embedded in lectures and supplementary), photographs, practical analysis of geomorphological datasets, Google Earth mapping practical, quizzes, desk-based glacial geomorphology mapping practical

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	10
Practicals classes and workshops	10
Guided independent study:	80
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	70
Project output other than dissertation	30

Summative assessment- Examinations:

1.5 hour paper

Answer 2 questions from a choice of 5 that cover the range of topics covered within the module

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Poster, maximum of 500 words of text supported by appropriate figures, tables, graphs, photographs, diagrams and effective poster design. Submission: Autumn term teaching week 10.

Formative assessment methods:

In-class quizzes, on the spot in-depth discussion of answers, practical exercises to apply knowledge from lectures, Drop-in sessions for feedback on poster assignment progress.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:

Coursework: Poster 30%

Exam: 70%

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 22 September 2022