Syllabus – ISNS-3368-001 Fall 2010

ISNS-3368-001 WEATHER & CLIMATE

(Elective)

Instructors: Ron Jackson

Best Times for Office Visit: By Appt. only.
e-mail; wxman@flash.net

Catalog Course Description

Meteorology is the science and study of the earth’s atmosphere and its interaction with the earth and all forms of life.
Meteorology seeks to understand and predict the properties of the atmosphere, weather, and climate from the surface of the
planet to the edge of space. The course is appropriate for all interested undergraduates.

Prerequisites
None.

Textbook and Other Related Material

Ahrens, C. Donald. Meteorology Today. An Introduction to Weather, Climate, and the Environment. Ninth Edition, 2009.
Thomson-Brooks Cole. ISBN-13: 9780495555735. Ahrens, C. Donald, Meteorology Today: An Introduction To Weather,
Climate, And The Environment: Workbook And Study Guide, Thomson Learning Center

Course Objectives
This course provides students with fundamental understanding and broad knowledge of the principles of meteorology and
atmospheric sciences. By the end of the semester, students will have an appreciation for the physical and chemical
properties of the atmosphere. Students will understand how the atmosphere has changed over time, how it is structured
today, and how it may change in the future. Students will have an understanding of basic weather forecasting and weather
map analysis. The course will review atmospheric heat, humidity, and stability. The course will also review atmospheric
motion, including air forces, pressures, and large and small-scale air motion. We will also discus global warming and
global climatic changes.

Course Requirements
Course requirements are:
· Test #1, Test #2, Test #3, Test #4 (Final Exam) – 100% of grade
· Attendance – Will be NOT taken, but is vital for a good grade!

Class Schedule
One, 2 hr. 45 min. class session per week – Wednesday, 12:30 pm to 3:15 pm

Topics Covered
ISNS-3368-001 Weather & Climate is a first course in meteorology and atmospheric sciences. The class is focused on the
following 12 major topics:
1. The Atmosphere
2. Energy
3. Seasonal and Daily Temperatures
4. Light,
5. Moisture
6. Condensation
7. Clouds
8. Precipitation
9. Thunderstorms and Tornadoes
10. Tropical Storms and Hurricanes
11. Climate
12. Air Pollution.

Prepared by: Ron Jackson Date: August 19, 2010

Syllabus – ISNS-3368-001 Fall 2010