Faculty of Science

Undergraduate - Unit


print version

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL


FacultyFaculty of Science
Organisational UnitSchool of Geosciences
OfferedClayton First semester 2014 (Day)
Coordinator(s)Ms Marion Anderson


This unit is a core unit in the Bachelor of Environmental Science degree. Topics include: the beginning and evolution of the Universe, our Solar System and Earth; planetary geology of our Solar System and other solar systems. The structure of the Earth, including: geological evolution of the Earth; plate tectonics and the structure of the Earth's crust; minerals and igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and their formation processes; formation and evolution of life on Earth. Geohazards (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and avalanches, and meteorite impacts) and modern day changes to the Earth's atmosphere and environment.


On completion of this unit students will be able to:

  1. Discuss the birth, evolution and age of the universe, our solar system, and other solar systems;

  1. Describe the structure of the Earth and other planets in our solar system, their chemistry as well as some of the tools that have been used to discover them;

  1. Discuss the evolution of the Earth's crust over geological time;

  1. Describe geologic time in relative and absolute terms;

  1. Identify and describe common minerals and rocks, including some of their properties;

  1. Discuss some of the processes involved in sedimentation, volcanic and igneous activity and metamorphism;

  1. Describe theories on the origin and evolution of life:

  1. Describe the nature of Geohazards, global climate change, and the likelihood of their occurrence and impacts on humanity.


Examination (2 hours): 50%
Laboratory work, on-line assessments and quizzes, group poster assignment and field excursions: 50%

Chief examiner(s)

Workload requirements

Three 1-hour lectures per week, and four 3-hour practicals per semester

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study