INTRODUCTION
As Geology is a subject only available to the Sixth Form it is worth special consideration. The vast majority of those who study the subject to “A” level are not intending to become Geologists. They aim to get a good grade in an interesting subject. At Royal Russell grades in this subject are always amongst the best in the school.

Entry Requirements
Contrary to what is sometimes said in careers books, GCSE Double Science is NOT required to study Geology, (although some Universities require it for a degree course!) It does, however, have good links with the other science subjects and with Geography. In the past few years, it has been successfully combined with an enormous range of options.

Content
The examination has a coursework component of 20%. This is undertaken in the Laboratory and on a residential trip to either Snowdonia or Torbay in March each year. Modules will be sat in January and June to maximise results. Geology is the study of the Earth’s structure and development. As such, it has direct uses in a range of careers including Engineering, the oil industry and commodity trading. The syllabus includes: (1) Economic geology eg Will the oil run out? (2) Minerals and Rocks eg What lies under your feet? (3) Fossils and Evolution eg What did kill off the Dinosaurs? (4) Volcanoes and Earthquakes eg Can we prevent them happening? (5) Earth history eg How old is the Earth?

Looking Further Ahead
Geology is an especially useful subject for those wishing to follow a career in either engineering or planning.