CSM2328 | 2025/6 | University of Exeter

MODULE TITLE	Igneous and Metamorphic Processes	CREDIT VALUE	15
MODULE CODE	CSM2328	MODULE CONVENER	Dr Kathryn Moore (Coordinator)

DURATION: TERM	1	2	3
DURATION: WEEKS		10

Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated)	35

DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

This module will provide you with the tools you need to interpret the mechanisms of formation of rocks that form as a result of magmatic, metamorphic and metasomatic processes. As such, you will become familiar with the fundamental principles underpinning geochemistry, phase diagrams and thermodynamics, as applied to igneous, metamorphic and hydrothermal systems. You will use this learning to reconstruct quantitatively the crystallization history of igneous rocks and the processes and environments of metamorphism. Field classes will allow you to ‘see’ these processes ‘frozen’ into the rock record.

This module is suitable for students specialising in geological subjects and will develop transferable skills. It will provide the foundation for the Year 3 15-credit modules CSM3046 Mineral Deposit Geology, CSM3151 Exploration Techniques, CSM3070 Volcanology, CSM3048 Applied Field Geology and CSM3416 International Field Class.

AIMS - intentions of the module

The module introduces you to the techniques used to interpret the petrogenesis (history of formation) of igneous and metamorphic rocks and develops the skills needed that will enable you to reconstruct magmatic and metamorphic systems from source through to crystallization or recrystallization and alteration.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge

1. Use optical, chemical, numerical and mathematical methods to describe rocks

2. Understand and interpret the occurrence and mode of formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge

3. Appreciate deep processes in the lithosphere and asthenosphere that affect the nature of rocks observed at the surface of the Earth and on other planetary bodies

4. Demonstrate an ability to apply conceptual models to problems by lateral thought processes

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge

5. Demonstrate observational and descriptive skills

6. Show self- and time-management capabilities

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module

Major element geochemistry of igneous rocks;
Trace element geochemistry of igneous rocks;
The use of isotopes to interpret the source regions of magmas;
Reconstructing crystallization processes;
Layered igneous intrusions;
Crustal magmatic systems;
Ascent and emplacement of magma;
Volatiles in magmatic systems;
Environments of formation of metamorphic rocks and minerals;
Metamorphic mineral assemblages;
Metamorphic reactions and thermodynamics;
Metasomatism;
Hydrothermal alteration and mineralisation;
Metamorphic rocks as resources.

Practical skills

Identification, description and interpretation of igneous and metamorphic textures and mineral assemblages in the field;
Use of phase diagrams and geochemistry in petrological studies.
Construction of Pressure-Temperature-time paths from metamorphic mineral assemblages and textures.

LEARNING AND TEACHING

LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)

Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities	49	Guided Independent Study	101	Placement / Study Abroad	0

DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS

Category	Hours of study time	Description
Scheduled learning and teaching activities	19	Lectures
Scheduled learning and teaching activities	16	Lab sessions
Scheduled learning and teaching activities	14	Fieldwork
Guided independent study	101	Private Study

ASSESSMENT

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade

Form of Assessment	Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length)	ILOs Assessed	Feedback Method
Practicals	2-hour duration each week	1-6	Verbal summary in the following session or when the practical exercise is complete.

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)

Coursework	50	Written Exams	50	Practical Exams	0

DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT

Form of Assessment	% of Credit	Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length)	ILOs Assessed	Feedback Method
Online quiz	10	30 minutes	1-3, 6	Online
Assessed coursework assignment	40	6 hours	1-6	Summative assessment statement online
Theoretical Examination	50	1.5 hours	1-4, 6	Exam mark and general statement online

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)

Original Form of Assessment	Form of Re-assessment	ILOs Re-assessed	Time Scale for Re-assessment
Online quiz	Online quiz (30 minutes, 10%)	1-3, 6	Referral/deferral period
Assessed coursework assignment	Assessed coursework assignment (6 hours, 40%)	1-6	Referral/deferral period
Theoretical examination	Theoretical examination (1.5 hours, 50%)	1-4, 6	Referral/deferral period

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

As above, On-line quizzes (10%), and/or practical examination (40%), and/or 1 Exam (50%)

RESOURCES

INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Basic reading:

ELE

Web based and Electronic Resources:

Frost BR & Frost CD, 2014. Essentials of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology. Cambridge University Press ISBN 9781107027541, 1107027543
Winter JD, 2010. Principles of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology. Pearson Education ISBN 0321592573
MacKenzie WS, Donaldson CH & Guilford C, 1982. Atlas of Igneous Rocks and Their Textures. Longman ISBN 0582300827
Yardley BWD, MacKenzie WS & Guilford C, 1990. Atlas of Metamorphic Rocks and Their Textures. Longman ISBN 0582301661
Rollinson HR, 1993. Using Geochemical Data: Evaluation, Presentation, Interpretation. Longman Geochemistry Series ISBN 9780582067011

Reading list for this module:

There are currently no reading list entries found for this module.

CREDIT VALUE	15	ECTS VALUE	7.5

PRE-REQUISITE MODULES	CSM2327
CO-REQUISITE MODULES

NQF LEVEL (FHEQ)	5	AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING	No
ORIGIN DATE	Tuesday 11th March 2025	LAST REVISION DATE	Wednesday 12th March 2025

KEY WORDS SEARCH	Igneous; metamorphic; rocks; minerals; Earth science; geology; geochemistry.

Igneous and Metamorphic Processes - 2025 entry