KS4 Geology

KS4 Overview

Geology is taught as a GCSE subject in twilight sessions at key stage 4. It is an exciting and stimulating subject that studies the science of not only the planet we live on, but the geology of other planets as well. Study the subject and embark on a "Journey of Discovery" into the world around you.

The lessons are delivered in twilight sessions, with the course divided into 16 individual topics. These are supported with a study book and accompanying resources. The theory lessons are accompanied by a wide variety of practical tasks, to help reinforce the learning of the practical and the theory components.

The programme of study at Key Stage 4 is designed to support students in becoming effective Geoscientists. Like all forms of science, we study geology to make new discoveries. But we also study it in order to look at some of the most important issues in society today including energy sources and sustainability, climate change, the impacts of developments on the environment, water management, mineral resources and natural hazards. The course provides students with an up-to-​date view of what Geology is all about, both in an academic sense and in relation to employment. It underpins the provision of resources to the UK’s population and industry, delivers a wide range of essential services, and helps us understand how we can live more sustainably on our planet

Throughout the course the emphasis is very much on practical learning in a group context, though there are ample opportunities for students to display their own individual skills and learning. Learning in a personalised way will be at the core of the subject, with the teacher taking the role of a guide rather than the font of all knowledge. The subject lends itself perfectly to this type of learning, given that good observation is the key to things geological. Students will learn how to think differently – they will start thinking like a Geoscientist!

Building on KS3 and preparing for KS5…

GCSE Geology builds on a number of subjects from KS3. Students who have enjoyed Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics and Physics at KS3 will find that the GCSE Geology course helps them apply their knowledge to real world situations and allows them to see the relevance of the science to the real world.

KS4 Assessment

A mixture of both formative and summative assessment is used to assess the subject.

 A range of Formative Assessment Techniques are used which include:

• Retrieval practice;
• Show me;
• Active observation.

At KS4, Geology is assessed on work produced at GCSE level graded from 1-9, with 9 being the highest grade. This is done through 16 Assessed tests, after each topic, linked to the examination texts and skills developed through the course. Verbal feedback is given during lessons and written feedback is given after each assessment. Students are given time develop their knowledge and skills in response to this feedback.

Summative assessments use past-paper examination questions that are linked to the units of work that the students’ study in the individually designed Geological Themes as detailed in the content.

KS4 Content

Exam Board and website link:

Exam Board: Eduqas

https://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/geology-gcse/#tab_overview

Details of external assessment:

There are two examinations:

Paper 1: Geological Principles

On-screen examination: 1 hour 15 minutes

50% of qualification

Paper 2: Investigative Geology

Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 

50% of qualification

Useful links & resources for KS4: