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Investigative and fieldwork geology

5 dot points across 5 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do you construct a geological cross-section and a graphic log from field and map data?

A geological cross-section is a vertical slice through the ground constructed from a map by transferring the topography and the boundaries of the rock units onto a profile and drawing the beds at their measured dip; a graphic (sedimentary) log records a vertical sequence of beds to scale, showing thickness, grain size, rock type and structures; both turn observations into a diagram from which the order of beds, the structures and the geological history can be read.
A focused answer to the Eduqas GCSE Geology statement on cross-sections and logs. Covers how a cross-section is built from a geological map (topographic profile, transferring boundaries, drawing the dip), how a graphic sedimentary log records a vertical sequence to scale, and how both are read for the order of beds and the geological history.
13 min answer →

How do geologists record what they see in the field and identify specimens?

Fieldwork involves recording observations systematically: making annotated field sketches, recording rock type, colour, grain size, texture, structures and fossils, measuring features such as dip and bed thickness, and identifying hand specimens of minerals and rocks using their physical properties; observations must be objective, located on a map or grid reference, and recorded safely and accurately so they can be interpreted later.
A focused answer to the Eduqas GCSE Geology statement on field observation. Covers recording observations systematically (annotated field sketches, rock type, grain size, texture, structures, fossils), measuring features in the field, identifying hand specimens by physical properties, and recording objectively, located and safely.
13 min answer →

How do you read a simplified geological map and locate features on it?

A simplified geological map shows the distribution of rock units at the surface using colours and a key, with a scale, a north arrow and grid lines; features are located using grid references (four-figure for a square, six-figure for a precise point), and the map is read together with topography to identify the rock units present, the order of the beds, and structures such as folds and faults shown by the outcrop pattern.
A focused answer to the Eduqas GCSE Geology statement on geological maps. Covers what a simplified geological map shows (rock units, key, scale, north arrow, grid), how to give four-figure and six-figure grid references, and how the outcrop pattern reveals the rock units, the order of beds and structures.
13 min answer →

How is a directed geological field investigation planned and carried out?

A directed field investigation answers a geological problem or question through a planned enquiry: forming a question or hypothesis, choosing a suitable site and methods, collecting data safely and systematically (measurements, samples, logs and sketches), recording it accurately and located, then analysing the data and drawing a justified conclusion while evaluating the reliability and limitations of the method; a minimum of two days of fieldwork, including such an investigation, is required.
A focused answer to the Eduqas GCSE Geology statement on the directed field investigation. Covers forming a question or hypothesis, choosing the site and methods, collecting and recording data safely and systematically, analysing it to reach a justified conclusion, and evaluating the reliability and limitations, within the required fieldwork.
13 min answer →

How do you handle scale, rates and data in geological investigations?

Geological investigations use quantitative skills: converting between map distance and real distance using the scale, calculating rates (of deposition, erosion or plate movement) from an amount and a time, reading and plotting graphs and gradients, and handling data with means, ranges and percentages; the distance to an earthquake epicentre can be estimated from the gap between P-wave and S-wave arrivals, and rates and ages are calculated using simple formulae and the half-life idea.
A focused answer to the Eduqas GCSE Geology statement on quantitative skills. Covers converting map distance to real distance using the scale, calculating rates of deposition, erosion and plate movement, reading graphs and gradients, handling data, and estimating epicentre distance from P-wave and S-wave arrivals.
14 min answer →