Outcomes
In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:
1. Identify and describe properties of principal weather systems, present basic principles of weather satellite and radar, and apply the scientific method to evaluate empirical weather data express the results through laboratory reports for each of the major sections of the course.
2. Describe the major and minor components of the atmosphere.
3. Identify the characteristics of solar radiation. Utilize critical reasoning skills and investigative techniques to explain its impact on the earth and differentiate between solar and terrestrial radiation. Properly communicate the investigation results through laboratory reports.
4. Distinguish between heat and temperature characteristics. Utilize multiple temperature measuring processes and explain the imbalances and effects of heating and cooling in the earth-atmosphere system. Properly communicate the investigation results through laboratory reports.
5. Investigate the physical properties of air pressure. Analyze how it changes with altitude and how surface air pressure varies with different types of weather systems. Present the results through laboratory reports.
6. Explain the global water cycle, distinguish various phase changes of water, derive relative humidity, and describe how atmospheric stability affects vertical motion of air and cloud formation.
7. Describe how clouds are classified, distinguish various cloud types, and explain precipitation formation.
8. Characterize through laboratory data analysis exercises the forces that initiate and govern the circulation of air, the monitoring of winds, and the principle components of the atmosphere’s planetary-scale circulation. Present the results through laboratory reports.
9. Distinguish between the types of fronts and frontal weather. Analyze fronts and frontal weather data and express the results in laboratory reports.
10. Summarize the life cycle of a thunderstorm, identify the characteristics of a severe thunderstorm, and describe in detail the formation of lightning, hail, and tornadoes.
11. Describe the basic structure and characteristics of a hurricane.
12. Analyze surface and upper-air weather map data, apply the basic forecasting process, and present the results in laboratory reports.
13. Explain why the sky is blue, how rainbows form, and what a mirage is.
14. Define climate and explain potential events that are most likely to impact the global climate.