The Natural World (F8510)
Note to prospective students: this content is drawn from our database of current courses and modules. The detail does vary from year to year as our courses are constantly under review and continuously improving, but this information should give you a real flavour of what it is like to study at Sussex.
The Natural World
Module F8510
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 4
Module Outline
This interdisciplinary module provides you with a foundation for studying physical geography and biodiversity. After introducing earth system science as a framework for the module, we consider the evolution of the planet by looking at the key components and inter-related processes of the geosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. Along the way we will explore elements of earth structure and composition, continental drift, plate tectonics and geological time, before examining key principles of macro-evolution and biodiversity (including patterns and processes, the history of life, major extinctions and radiations, and historical biogeography). We complete the module by looking at major drivers of the climate system and environmental change.
Module learning outcomes
1. Recognise the environments and landscapes formed by biophysical processes operating within the geo-ecosphere at a range of temporal and spatial scales, and explain how human actions have modified them.
2. Identify and evaluate the pattern and dynamic nature of spatial variation at the surface of the Earth and throughout the global climate system.
3. Describe and appraise the interactions between biophysical and human processes, particularly in terms of risks and natural hazards.
4. Apply geographical concepts, techniques and expertise to problem solving, environmental monitoring and modelling, sustainability and conservation of the natural environment.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple Choice questions | Autumn Semester Week 8 Tue 17:00 | 20.00% |
| Multiple Choice questions | Autumn Semester Week 5 Tue 17:00 | 20.00% |
| Computer Based Exam | Semester 1 Assessment | 60.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Joseph Alcamo
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/416360
Prof Julian Murton
Assess convenor
/profiles/30834
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.