Module DXX-1006:
Introductory Fieldwork: Snowdonia
Introductory Fieldwork: Snowdonia 2022-23
DXX-1006
2022-23
School Of Natural Sciences
Module - Semester 1
20 credits
Module Organiser:
Lynda Yorke
Overview
This module combines lectures and fieldwork to provide a broad overview of the processes that have given rise to the distinctive features of the Snowdonian landscape. The module focuses on the five key themes of Geology, Ecology, Forestry, Agriculture and Society. Lectures provide a broad overview of the topics and introduce relevant theoretical and conceptual points. The main areas covered will include: underlying geology; glaciation; post-glacial ecology; soil formation; political history of community, private and state forestry; history of human habitation and resource use; the formation and development of the national park. Students will be taken to key sites that demonstrate how these processes interact and relate to particular places.
Assessment Strategy
-threshold -Grade D- to C+The student displays a basic understanding of the principles and basic knowledge of subject. Relevant information is discussed to basic depth the written assignment and tasks. Most of the key issues are identified but there may be some omissions or gaps in understanding. Links between theory and practice are not well developed.
-good -Grade B- to B+The student displays sound knowledge of subject, ability to contribute constructively to debate, ability to write perceptive and well-argued reports. Descriptively presents information in the written assignment and tasks.
-excellent -Grade A- and aboveThe student demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of subject and clear ability to pull together various elements of the course material. Evidence of background reading. There are no major areas omitted and the student demonstrates an ability to critically analyse and evaluate relevant information. A clear, concise, descriptive style of presentation in the written assignment and tasks
Learning Outcomes
- Appreciate how different landscape processes interact over a range of spatial and temporal scales.
- Demonstrate a critical and analytical attitude to the natural and managed environment.
- Interpret key landscape features in relation to relevant theories and methods.
- Understand the key industrial, ecological, geological and social processes that have produced the distinctive features of the Snowdonian landscape.
Assessment method
Coursework
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Cwm Idwal Exercise: you will be required to produce (draw) a geomorphological map and accompanying write up of no more than 500 words.
Weighting
15%
Due date
09/11/2022
Assessment method
Coursework
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Aber Valley Survey: you will be asked to use deductive reasoning to identify the habitat type that constitutes a particular areaor parcel of land, according to a widely-used habitat classification - Phase 1 survey. You will complete a survey form for the habitats listed (Habitat 1 toHabitat 20) by simply place the letter that corresponds to the descriptor / alphanumeric codewhich you think best defines the habitat.
Weighting
15%
Due date
04/11/2022
Assessment method
Essay
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
The Conwy Valley Exercise is to focused on your ability to record useful observations about a site andinterpret them. This involves writing a short summary of observations of no more than 500 words.
Weighting
15%
Due date
16/11/2022
Assessment method
Coursework
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Braichmelyn Forest Assessment: to gather a range of evidence to help you understand theinfluence that the Snowdonia National Park (SNP) designation has had upon Braichmelyn Forest in order to produce a short (no more than 750 words) report in relation to compare and contrast forest management and SNP designation.
Weighting
15%
Due date
11/11/2022
Assessment method
Coursework
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Degree specific essay: you will be asked to produce an essay or data report related to the task you will undertake on the degree-specific day of the field course week. The word count is 2,000 words, +/- the university's 10% word count allowence.
Weighting
40%
Due date
25/11/2022