|Course ID:||GEOG 1112. 3 hours. |
|Course Title:||Introduction to Weather and Climate|
|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 WEATH & CLIM|
|Offered fall, spring and summer semester every year. |
|Grading System:||A-F (Traditional)|
Successful completion of this course will satisfy the Physical Sciences General
Education Core requirement by accomplishing the following broad learning objectives:
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
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.
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
Lifting Mechanisms and Atmospheric Stability
Dew & Frost, Fog, and Clouds
Winds and Weather Systems
Air Pressure and Winds
Local Winds and Monsoons
Oceans and Ocean Currents
El Niño / Southern Oscillation Events
Air Masses and Fronts
Thunderstorms and Tornadoes
Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
Human Activities & Environmental Problems
Climate Change/Global Warming
Air Pollution & Acid Rain
Urban Heat Islands
Weather Analysis and Forecasting