Practicalities
What we expect you to know already:
The field trip is aimed at undergraduate students who have completed at least one full time year of study. The Open University course S209 meets this requirement. We expect you to be able to: identify, describe, and interpret a range of rocks and minerals and to understand the conditions under which they formed; observe, describe, collect and interpret a variety of geological data; have a good understanding of how to construct and interpret geological maps and cross sections; have an understanding of basic chemistry. We appreciate that people will come from different backgrounds with different levels of experience, some people will already have some field experience but others may not, and not everyone may feel confident they can do all the things in the list above. If you are unsure about these requirements, please contact us to discuss them.
What we will be doing:
At each locality we will be observing, describing and recording the different lithologies and structures. We will take measurements of bedding and cleavages using compass-clinometers (we will bring spare if you do not have your own). From this information, we will look to interpret the environment of deposition and the nature of the deformation the rocks have undergone. Fieldwork will be in pairs of one disabled and one non-disabled student. Pairs will then form groups of four in an evening to complete the goal of an electronic poster on the geological evolution of Anglesey. At Rhoscolyn we will construct a geological map and cross section. At Parys Mountain we plan to do a geochemical survey of the ponds to look at the water quality.
Costs:
The cost of food and accommodation is covered for student participants (and carers) by the HEFCE funded “Embedding and sustaining inclusive STEM practices” project (see About Us section). There is no charge for attending the field trip. However, there may be costs involved in getting to the hostel (see transport). We are asking for a contribution of £300 from interested observers to help cover the costs.
Dates:
Sunday 2nd to Sunday 9th September 2018. We have access to the accommodation from 4pm on the 2nd and will leave by 10am on the 9th.
Transport:
Unfortunately, we are not able to run a coach to Anglesey as originally planned. However, we will arrange pickups from Holyhead station (note: train services often have a reduced frequency on a Sunday). There is also parking available at the hostel for those who are driving.
Accommodation and food:
Accommodation is hostel-style. Most rooms have bunk beds and are shared. There will be one/two rooms that will be available for single occupancy. There is one room adapted for wheelchair use. We appreciate some people will have particular requirements with regards to accommodation and we aim to be as flexible as possible. Please get in touch if this is the case. The trip is fully catered with breakfast, packed lunch and three course evening meal provided by the hostel. They are happy to catered to all dietary requirements.
Outdoor Alternative
Cerrig yr Adar
Rhoscolyn
Anglesey
LL65 2NQ