Outline

Overview

The surface of the planet on which you live is the product of a balance between tectonic forces and numerous agents of erosion. The landscapes in which you live and work, and from which you draw resources, are therefore the legacy of many processes operating synchronously over long time periods. It is also true that Earth's landscapes are dynamic, and constantly changing around you in response to climate, tectonics and patterns of life. The sustainable management of landscapes is strongly dependent upon an awareness of those processes and the ways that they constrain human-environment interactions. In the Advanced mode of Earth Surface Processes, you will learn how landscapes are produced, and what this means for contemporary land use. Lectures by experts in physical geography, geology, soil science and environmental science will introduce you to the planetary and regional-scale controls on landforms and landscape dynamics, and the nature and distribution of major Australian landscape types. Focussed around 'hands on' field and laboratory-based tasks, students will gain essential practical, analytical and interpretive skills in the analysis of landscapes and earth surface processes that shape them. The Advanced mode of Earth Surface Processes challenges you to create new knowledge, and provides a higher level of academic rigour. You will take part in a series of small-group practical exercises that will develop your skills in research design and execution, and will provide you with a greater depth of understanding in core aspects of geomorphology. The Advanced mode will culminate in a research-focussed Advanced Assignment. This is a unit for anyone wanting to better understand the planet on which they live, and who may wish to develop higher-level analytical and research skills in geomorphology and landscape analysis.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Geosciences Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	Annual average mark of at least 70
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	GEOS2116 or GEOG2321
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Dan Penny, dan.penny@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam ?	Final examination (Advanced) Open-book take home examination. Short and long format responses	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written test ?	Early Feedback Task Quiz Delivered as an online, multiple-choice quiz, this assessment task will reinforce foundational concepts in geomorphology discussed in class and will acts as an Early Feedback Tasks for this unit. #earlyfeedbacktask	3%	Week 02 Due date: 15 Aug 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 15 Aug 2025	30 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Denudation Report Small Practical Report	7%	Week 04 Due date: 29 Aug 2025 at 23:59	500-750 words, figures/data	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Geochronology Report Laboratory report	10%	Week 06 Due date: 12 Sep 2025 at 23:59	500-750 words, figures, data	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	LandLab report Laboratory Report	10%	Week 08 Due date: 26 Sep 2025 at 23:59	750-1000, figures/data	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Hydrology Lab Report Small Practical Report	10%	Week 10 Due date: 17 Oct 2025 at 23:59	300-500 words, figures/data	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Soil Lab Report Laboratory Report	20%	Week 12 Due date: 31 Oct 2025 at 23:59	500-750 words, figures/data	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Assessment in this unit will be summative (for marks). A series of small practical reports will develop your skills and articulate concepts from the lectures with practical application. Concepts will be assessed in the final exam, which may include both short and long response answers.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100
Distinction	75 - 84
Credit	65 - 74
Pass	50 - 64
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

5% of the total possible mark per day or part thereof after the submission date and time.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	1. Introduction, framing concepts; 2. Meta controls: climate	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	1. Meta controls: tectonics 2. Passive margin evolution	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Climate and Denudation 1	Practical (2 hr)
Week 03	1. Rock to regolith: weathering; 2. Hill Slope Processes	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Climate and Denudation 2	Practical (2 hr)
Week 04	1. Geochronology A; 2. Geochronology B	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Geochronology 1	Practical (2 hr)
Week 05	1. Geochronology C; 2. Geochronology D	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Geochronology 2	Practical (1 hr)
Week 06	1. Sediment Transport Processes; 2. Coastal Geomorphology	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Landlab 1	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	1. Arid Land Geomorphology A; 2. Arid Land Geomorphology B	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Landlab 2	Practical (2 hr)
Week 08	1. Fluvial Geomorphology; 2. Hydrological Landscape Classification	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Hydrology Lab 1	Practical (2 hr)
Week 09	1: Flooding is not always a disaster; 2: Groundwater from ancient to recent	Block teaching (2 hr)
Week 09	Hydrology Lab 2	Practical (2 hr)
Week 10	1. Regolith to Soil; 2. Major pedological processes	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Soil Lab 1	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	Soil Horizonation	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Soil Lab 2	Practical (2 hr)
Week 12	Soil Classification	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 13	Conclusion, Review	Lecture (2 hr)

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Identify the major planetary- and regional-scale geological, tectonic, and climatic controls on landform and landscape dynamics.
LO2. Describe and classify common landscape types and explain the processes that govern their form and distribution
LO3. Explain and evaluate the influence of geomorphic processes on the management and modification of contemporary landscapes.
LO4. Interpret stratigraphic facies in terms of the geomorphic processes responsible for their formation.
LO5. Demonstrate understanding of geological time by comparing and applying methods used to date Earth materials.
LO6. Apply field and laboratory techniques to collect, document, and analyze data on landform processes
LO7. Use and evaluate spatial analysis and modelling software to investigate earth surface processes and landscape types
LO8. Apply critical thinking and develop problem-solving strategies in classroom, field, and laboratory contexts.
LO9. Communicate complex scientific knowledge, concepts, and ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences using appropriate media.
LO10. Demonstrate safe, ethical, and collaborative professional conduct when working independently or in groups.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Greater focus on bespoke, directly-supervised laboratory activities during semester that provide the basis for the Advanced Research Report.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
A laboratory coat and closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory

As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

GEOS2916: Earth Surface Processes (Advanced)

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links