Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Igneous and metamorphic rocks compose the bulk of the Earth. Understanding what these rocks are and how they form is an essential part of the study of geology and is fundamental to a wide range of higher level units. This unit builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired in the prerequisite unit (NQB311 Mineralogy) by focusing on the description, classification and origins of igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Aims

This unit aims to allow you to develop the theoretical and practical skills necessary to describe, classify and interpret igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Objectives

In completing this unit you should:

1. Be skilled in the laboratory and field recognition and description of mineral assemblages and textures of igneous and metamorphic rocks, using both hand specimen and optical microscopic techniques.

2. Understand, and be able to apply, universally adopted methods (for example the IUGS system) of rock classification and nomenclature.

3. Understand the relationship between whole rock major element geochemistry and mineralogy.

4. Be skilled in drawing conclusions about the formation of rocks on the basis of textural, mineralogical and geochemical features.

5. Develop skills in information literacy and scientific writing.

Content

Petrography (the description and classification of igneous and metamorphic rocks in thin section and hand specimen; the identification, classification and interpretation of textures). The origin, formation, and geologic history of igneous and metamorphic rocks as determined from field and laboratory studies of occurrences, mineral assemblages, rock compositions and textures. Binary and ternary phase diagrams, geochemical principles of high temperature silicate systems.

Field studies are an essential component of the unit. The development of observation skills, logical thinking, time management, and independent work skills are embedded in the curriculum.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Teaching and learning strategies include formal lectures, practical sessionsand fieldwork. Lectures are used to introduce the central concepts of rock classification, the interpretation of textures, and petrogenetic hypothesis. Practical exercises are structured in two parts. The formal practical session is based on the examination of specific rock samples to answer set questions. The second part emphasises self-study, in which students expand their knowledge via the examination of a variety of rock samples that have complex petrographic/lithologic features. Problems are set to encourage you to develop and apply the theory of petrology and focus principally on phase diagrams, geochemistry and petrogenetic issues. A project report develops your skill in information literacy and scientific writing.

A compulsory field excursion, run in association with the NQB412 and NQB413 field excursion is scheduled for Week 13 and 'Swat Vac').

Assessment

Practical exercises and problem sets are formatively assessed (Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 4, 5). Summative assessment of Project work addresses Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 5; assessment of the field excursion is both formative and summative with feedback provided during the trip. Summative assessment includes a final theory and practical examination.Verbal feedback on a weekly basis on practical assignments.
Verbal and written feedback on project work.

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Igneous Petrology Final Theory (Summative)
Relates to objectives: 3, 4,
Weight: 30%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End Sem

Assessment name: Examination (Practical)
Description: Igneous Petrography Final Practical (Summative)
Relates to objectives: 1, 2,4
Weight: 25%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End Sem

Assessment name: Project (applied)
Description: Metamorphic Petrology study and report (lab-based) / Igneous Petrology study and report (field-based) (Formative/summative)
Relates to objectives: Project report (Outcomes 1, 4, 5) / Field trip report (Outcomes 1, 2, 4)
Weight: 45%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: 1 week post activity

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Required Text:
Winter, JD (2009): An Introduction to Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, 2nd edition, New Jersey: Prentice-Hall

References:
1. Blatt H, Tracy R, and Owens B (2006): Petrology: Igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Nw York: WH Freeman
2. Sigurdsson H (ed) (2000) Encyclopedia of Volcanoes. Academic Press, 1417 pp.
3. Jerram D and Petford N (2011) The Field Description of Igneous Rocks (2nd edition). Wiley Blackwell, 238 pp.
4. Yardley BW (1989) An Introduction to Metamorphic Petrology, New York: Longman. 248pp.
5. Philpotts AR (1989) Petrography of Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, New Jersey: Prentice Hall
10.
6. Best MG (1995) Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, Nw York: WH Freeman. 630pp.
7. Deer WA, Howie RA & Zussman J (1992) An Introduction to the Rock Forming Minerals, 2nd edition, Essex: Longman

Costs:
Students will be requires to purchase safety glasses (approximately $12) for use while collecting rock samples, and a hand lens ( approximatley $15).
There will be minor additional costs associated with the field trip, which is run in conjunction with NQB412 & NQB413.

Risk assessment statement

Workplace Health and Safety requirements relevant to this unit relate particularly to fieldwork. A risk assessment is undertaken for the field excursion in accord with Faculty of Science requirements. You will be provided with safety guidelines prior to each trip. Daily reminders are given at the beginning of each field day. A diary is kept with regard to all safety reminders and issues. A qualified first aid officer accompanies each trip in accord with University guidelines.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 16-Jul-2012