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ESC-30008 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2022/23 Last Updated: 19 January 2023

ESC-30008 - Structure and Geodynamics
Coordinator: Stuart Egan Room: WSF29 Tel: +44 1782 7 33174
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 6
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 733615

Programme/Approved Electives for 2022/23

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

Not applicable

Description for 2022/23

This module uses a combination of synchronous and asynchronous teaching sessions to study the structural and geodynamic effects associated with continental tectonics. Extensional, compressional, inversion, wrench/strike-slip regimes are studied at both regional and local scales. The structure part of the module explains the structural styles exhibited in each of these regimes. In addition, the analysis of a variety of geological and geophysical data during practical classes provides an understanding of the formation and evolution of geological features such as extensional sedimentary basins and mountain belt-foreland basin couplets. Extensional and inversion tectonics are also illustrated via the field study of coastal outcrops in SW England.

The geodynamics component of the module concentrates upon explaining the fundamental processes that occur within the lithosphere during continental tectonics. Emphasis is placed upon mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic controls upon basin formation. The practical element of this part of the module provides an introduction to the numerical and computer modelling of geological processes.

Aims
The primary aim of the module is to teach students the concepts, processes and physical structures associated with continental tectonics

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/esc-30008/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

describe and interpret the large scale tectonic evolution of geological features occurring in extensional, compressional, inversion and wrench continental tectonic regimes: 1,3
understand the mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic behaviour of the continental lithosphere during continental tectonics: 2,3,4
use numerical/computer modelling techniques as a tool for providing insights into sedimentary basin formation, and have critical awareness of the strengths and weaknesses of the methods: 2,4
interpret and analyse geological maps and seismic reflection profiles to become familiar with the structural geology of sedimentary basins in a variety of tectonic settings: 1

Study hours

- 40 hours synchronous teaching (e.g. practical classes)
- 16 hours fieldwork
- 10 hours asynchronous delivery (e.g. Sway-based presentations)
- 84 hours private study/completion of assignments

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Practice Based Assessment weighted 33%
Structure Practical Exercises
Interpretation and analysis of subsurface geological data in practical classes, and aerial photograph mapping and structural interpretation based on module field course

2: Practice Based Assessment weighted 17%
Practical assignments on geodynamics: lithosphere extension and basin formation
Practical exercises (worksheet-based) on modelling lithosphere extension and basin formation using spreadsheet software

3: Class Test weighted 34%
Class Test
End of semester short answer test administered via the KLE and taking approximately 90 minutes to complete. The questions will place emphasis on integrating both structural and geodynamic components of the module.

4: Practice Based Assessment weighted 16%
Practical assignments on geodynamics: modelling of extensional fault movement and flexural isostasy
Practical exercises (worksheet based) on modelling the structural and isostatic effects of extensional fault movement and flexural isostasy.

Please note that for the 2022/23 Academic Year programmes may be adapted to operate in accordance with a flexible, digital approach. This means that there may be some changes made to how modules are delivered and assessed. The latest information will be provided to you by your School in module handbooks. We endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes and details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/student-terms-and-conditions/

Last Updated: 19 January 2023