Main School
Geology
Geology is the study of the Earth, the materials of which it is made, the structure of those materials, and the processes acting upon them. It includes the study of past organisms which inhabited our planet. A very important part of geology is the study of how Earth’s materials, structures, processes and organisms have changed over time. Pupils can study Geology as a GCSE subject at Red House School from Year 9 and they follow the WJEC specification. The topics covered include:
Earth Materials
This covers the properties of minerals as well as sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Earth processes
The rock cycle is covered in this section and includes
igneous activity- weathering and erosion
- sedimentation and rock formation
- metamorphism
- earthquakes
- the interior of the earth
- plate tectonics
- geological prediction of hazards
Earth structures
This involves the collecting and recording evidence ‘in the field’ and is linked to geological map work.
Earth Resources
The processes that produce fossil fuels and mineral resources are studied. Limestone formation, water supply and waste disposal are also covered
Earth History
The fossil record is studied in some detail and is related to the
geological history of Britain.
Fieldwork is an important aspect in the study of geology and field excursions are arranged to areas of local geological interest including Staithes, Berwick-on-Tweed, and Teesdale. The department also visits the Natural History Museum in London.
Department of Geology Personnel
Mr Tony Makin MA BSc PGCE Sunderland & Teesside
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