Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit focuses on physical changes to rocks that have been subjected to deformation and/or metamorphism and the plate tectonic setting in which these changes occur. The main academic objectives of the unit are focused on understanding principles and processes of deformation from the atomic scale to the tectonic scale, and the description and interpretation of common geologic structures. The unit encompasses both theory and practical aspects of deformation and this knowledge is then used to interpret the history of complexly deformed terranes. Practical and applied examples of deformation and its tectonic setting are explored to consolidate understanding of rock formation and deformation and to highlight relationships between these processes.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Geology; Integrated Earth and Marine Sciences; Geochemistry major sequences
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of basic concepts in structural geology and tectonics and the links between them; (2) perform structural analyses using conventional techniques and interpret complex deformational histories from maps; (3) demonstrate an understanding of geological processes that form and deform rocks and how geoscience data are used to interpret deformation history and associated events; and (4) demonstrate knowledge of metamorphic processes, and practical skills in how to recognise features related to deformation in metamorphic rocks formed at different pressures and temperatures.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) practical exercises and reports; (2) continuous assessment; and (3) exam. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Myra Keep
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
one Unit(s) EART1104 Discovering Earth
Contact hours
lectures: 3 hours per week
labs: 2 hours per week
Texts

A comprehensive reading list is given out at the start of the unit.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.