Geographical fieldwork
GEOGRAPHICAL INVESTIGATIONS FOR THE LEAVING CERTIFICATE 2013Our one-day projects are specially designed for the geography fieldwork investigation topics for 2013. In all our projects students are involved in using various items of equipment to make measurements and collect data that can be used for presentation and analysis.
Topic 5: Test the hypothesis that erosion is active in a coastal environment.
A study of coastal erosion in Liscannor Bay, Co. Clare
This project will include wind and wave studies, observation and recording of erosion features, a study of attrition and examining historical evidence for erosion.
Topic 6: Investigate how geology effects the landscape in a local area.
Option 1. To examine the role of geology in the Burren’s landscape at Mullach Mor.
This project will study limestone and record some physical features of this karst landscape eg limestyone pavements. They will also examine the role of water in the formation of this unique area.
Option 2. To examine the role of geology on the Burren’s landscape at Slieve Elva.
This project will identify some different rocks in the Burren and examine their effect on the landscape in terms of vegetation, soil depth and water content. It will also examine their role in the location of landscape features
GENERAL BURREN STUDIES
The limestone landscape of the Burren is unique in Ireland and examples of most karstic land forms can be seen here. The extensive limestone pavements with their clints and grykes clearly illustrate the process of chemical erosion.
CAVES
Caves are an important feature of limestone areas and extensive caves are known beneath the Burren's surface. Instructors are available who can lead small groups into wild caves.
DRAINAGE PATTERNS
Near Lisdoonvarna, the limestone is overlain by impermeable rock with surface drainage providing a strong contrast to the high Burren where there are many dry valleys and closed depressions ranging from small dolines and turloughs to the large polje at Carron.
GLACIATION
There are many excellent examples of glacial action in the Burren. These include glaciated valleys, moraines and erratics.
