Course Syllabus
Instructor
Jim Steenburgh
Professor
Department of Atmospheric Sciences
jim.steenburgh@utah.edu
Weather Discussion Teaching Assistant
Owen Hoffman
u1190965@utah.edu
Course Description
Atmos 5110/6110 provides an introduction to contemporary synoptic-dynamic meteorology and its applications. The course is not restricted to the synoptic scale, but instead synthesizes observational and numerical analysis to understand weather across all scales, with an emphasis on the midlatitudes. Major course topics include basic dynamics (e.g., divergence, deformation, vorticity, and potential vorticity), upper-level waves, quasigeostrophic (QG) theory, diagnosis of vertical motion and height tendency, potential vorticity thinking, and extratropical cyclones.
Learning Objective
At the end of this course, you will be able to apply and synthesize atmospheric dynamics, observational analysis, and numerical analysis to diagnose and understand the past, present, and future weather.
Credits
3
Co-Requisite
Students must be co-enrolled in Atmos 5120/6120 (Weather Discussion) unless approved by the instructor.
Meeting Times and Locations
9:10-10:30 AM T/Th in 711 WBB.
Atmos 5120: Weather Discussion is held from 1:00-1:30 PM T/Th in the same room.
Office Hours
Few people come to see me during office hours. Thus, I'm going to hold them this semester by appointment. Contact me by e-mail and we can set something up. I can meet in person or virtually.
Textbook
The textbook is optional. Many students are happy with the course notes and Canvas materials. However, I do make use of the following. These books are optional and not required.
Midlatitude Synoptic Meteorology: Dynamics, Analysis, and Forecasting by Gary Lackmann
Introduction to Dynamic Meteorology by James R. Holton and Gregory J. Hakim.
Grading
Grading is based on Canvas-based mastery quizzes and labs (40%, approximately weekly), three in-class quizzes (15% each), and Atmos 5120/6120: Weather Discussion attendance and participation (15%). Grades on late assignments reduced 15% per day past due date without prior
approval. For the Atmos 5120/6120: Weather Discussion portion of the grade, students are not allowed to miss a discussion they are leading (reschedule if there is a conflict or you are ill) and are allowed to miss no more than 2 weather discussions total, including those given by others. Missing 3 will reduce the maximum points that can be achieved for the 5110/6110 grade by 50%. Missing 4 will result in no points being given for 5110/6110 and no credit being given for 5120/6120.
Computer, Networking, and Software Resources
Students need to develop proficiency in the use of IDV early in the course, which will pay dividends during the semester. IDV will be run on 711 WBB desktop computers and these will be available for your use during non-class times when the room is not in use. If you otherwise have concerns about the networking and software resources available to you to do this or access the class online, the Marriott Library has Windows and Mac laptops available for checkout and can provide a mobile hotspot. Information is available at https://lib.utah.edu/services/knowledge-commons/checkout-equipment-faq.php. If you still need assistance, please contact us. It is essential that you contact us at the beginning of the semester to make these arrangements.
Running IDV
IDV is a visualization and analysis tool for atmospheric and geophysical data. You will be able to run it on 711 WBB desktop computers. Click here for information on how to run IDV.
How to Succeed in this Class
Stay on top of the material and apply it to real-world weather analysis and forecasting daily.
Our Pledge
We have designed this course to provide the best learning experience possible and pledge to provide the assistance you need to succeed. We are available to meet with you whenever you have questions or want help.
Our Expectations
University policies are described in depth below and apply to this class. We expect you to be engaged during class meetings, participate in learning activities, collaborate with your fellow students, and turn in assignments on time. Discussions should be civilized and respectful. Plagiarism, cheating, harassment, or other forms of misconduct will not be tolerated.
Your Well Being
Please feel welcome to reach out to Jim with issues regarding your coursework and education. For helpful resources for managing your personal wellness and counseling options see the Wellness at the U tab below.
Academic Advisors
Academic advisors are educators and problem solvers who advocate for students as they navigate their personal journeys through higher education and attain their academic goals. Through inclusion and connection, academic advisors open doors to new opportunities for self-awareness and growth, empowering students to define their roles as citizens within local and global communities.
The Undergraduate Advisor for Atmospheric Sciences is Isaac Reyes. You can contact him at https://atmos.utah.edu/undergraduate/academics/academic-advising.php.
Americans with Disabilities Act
The University of Utah seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services, and activities for people with disabilities. If you will need accommodations for the class, please see the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) information below and make arrangements for accommodations.
Adjustments
This syllabus is meant to serve as an outline and guide for our course. Please note that I may modify it with reasonable notice to you. I may also modify the course schedule to accommodate the needs of our class. Any changes will be announced in class and posted on Canvas under Announcements.