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Core Skills in Physical Geography - ENV00024C

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  • Department: Environment and Geography
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25

Module summary

This module will introduce students to the fundamental processes that define the physical environment. Throughout this module students will learn how to quantify processes and change through practical application, explore how biology interacts with the physical environment, and how challenges arise in these natural systems.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

This module aims to:

  • Introduce students to the major physical processes at work in our physical environment.

  • Equip students with relevant data collection skills (e.g. field and laboratory) for the measurement of the physical environment.

  • Explore interactions between abiotic and biotic processes including human influences on our environment.

  • Equip students with key skills such as critical reading and writing and presentation skills

Module learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental physical processes occurring in the environment.

  • Apply relevant field and lab techniques to the study of the physical environment

  • Syntheses and critically evaluate complex information from a range of reliable sources

  • Communicate effectively through presentations and scientific report writing.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 80
Oral presentation/seminar/exam 20

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Feedback will be given via online quizzes (i.e. their mark), and general comments. Feedback on presentations will be given as a recorded ‘lecture’ aiming to cover all general points arising, plus the feedback with their marksheet. Written feedback provided on the report.

Indicative reading

Smithson, P., Addison, K., & Atkinson, K. (2013). Fundamentals of the physical environment. Routledge.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.