| Course ID: | GEOG 2120H. 3 hours. |
| Course Title: | Introduction to Weather and Climate (Honors) |
Course
Description: | Atmospheric composition and structure, clouds, precipitation,
and atmospheric motion and winds. Organized weather systems,
including air masses, fronts, and severe weather. Discussion of
global climates includes circulation, wind systems, climate
classification, and climate change. |
| Oasis Title: | INTRO WEA & CLI HON |
| Duplicate Credit: | Not open to students with credit in GEOG 1112 |
| Prerequisite: | Permission of Honors |
Semester Course
Offered: | Offered spring semester every even-numbered year. |
| Grading System: | A-F (Traditional) |
|
| Course Objectives: | Successful completion of this course will provide the following
learning outcomes:
A basic understanding of the physical forces that govern
atmospheric pressure and motion.
A basic understanding of mechanisms that drive atmospheric
water and energy cycles.
An understanding of weather systems including mid-latitude
cyclones and hurricanes.
An appreciation of the interactions between the land-surface
and atmosphere in affecting weather and climate.
An ability to recognize the interactions between human
activities, modification of the earth-atmosphere system, and
changes to the atmosphere and climate.
A greater appreciation of the importance of science in our
everyday lives and its role in influencing policy decision
making.
This course meets the following General Education Abilities by
accomplishing the specific learning objectives listed below:
Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration,
student faculty electronic interaction, and supplemental
reading assignments.
Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this
class, and includes the following elements, which are
accomplished through lecture and classroom discussion/inquiry-
based learning efforts:
Consider and engage opposing points of view
Support a consistent purpose and point of view
Assimilate, analyze, and present a body of information
Analyze arguments
Moral Reasoning (Ethics) is an important element of this
course, as it seeks to link our understanding of the atmosphere
and weather phenomena with human health and social welfare, as
developed through lectures, classroom discussion, and inquiry-
based learning exercises. |
| Topical Outline: | Energy and Moisture in the Atmosphere
Earth-Sun Relationships & Seasons
Atmospheric Composition and Structure
Energy; Convection & Conduction; Radiation
Global Energy Balance
Temperature and Temperature Patterns
Atmospheric Moisture
Adiabatic Processes
Lifting Mechanisms and Atmospheric Stability
Dew & Frost, Fog, and Clouds
Precipitation
Winds and Weather Systems
Air Pressure and Winds
Local Winds and Monsoons
Global Circulation
Upper-level Winds
Oceans and Ocean Currents
El Niño / Southern Oscillation Events
Air Masses and Fronts
Mid-Latitude Cyclones
Thunderstorms and Tornadoes
Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
Human Activities & Environmental Problems
Climate Change/Global Warming
Ozone Depletion
Air Pollution & Acid Rain
Urban Heat Islands
Weather Analysis and Forecasting |