Announcements: On-line discussion part II is now open

Syllabus Download in PDF format 

Instructor: Cecilia Bitz
e-mail: bitz@atmos.washington.edu
Phone: (206) 543-1339
Office: Room 726 in the Atmospheric Sciences Building
Office hours: Tuesdays 12:30-1:30, or by appointment

Class Meeting Times and Location
Lectures: MWF 10:30-11:20 in  Atmospheric Sciences and Geophysics Hall (ATG) 310c
Occasional computing sessions (see the schedule): in ATG 623

Course Description
The purpose of the course is to introduce principles of fluid dynamics applied to the behavior of large-scale mid-latitude weather systems. Students will learn why upper-level winds tend to blow parallel to the isobars and why troughs, instead of ridges, tend to bring unsettled weather.

Textbook:  Holton, J.R., 2004: Introduction to Dynamic Meteorology, 4th Edition. Elsevier.  The first six chapters will be covered. Textbook errata are available on-line.

Grading policy
    Midterms15% (Fridays Oct 21 and Nov 18)
    Comprehensive Final Exam 30% (Monday 8:30-10:30 or possibly take home)
    Homework and Projects 40%
    Extra Credit 3% max
Makeup test by prior arrangement only. Homework is due in class on Wednesdays. Late homework is discouraged and may be graded and returned too late to be of optimal value to the student. One percent extra credit will be given if you enter at least two discussion comments to the class on-line discussion within each of the three class intervals.

Strategies for Success
Read the textbook and derive the equations on your own as you read. The lecture notes will be available in advance of class. Use them as a supplement to the text. They indicate the topics the instructor believes are most challenging and important.

Attend lectures. Valuable example problems will be worked in class and in small groups. Animations and computer exercises will be shown during lecture that may be part of future exams. Lecture notes cannot possibly contain everything important that the instructor says. Occasionally material will be given in lecture that was not ready when the lecture notes were posted and you will be expected to know it. Bring the lecture notes to class and write on them.

Use the on-line discussion to hash out questions with your classmates. Work in groups on homework. Go to office hours or email the instructor when you need help. Don't be afraid to ask questions in class.  Use anonymous email if you feel uncomfortable asking a question or wish to anonymously communicate some helpful feedback to the instructor.