METEOROLOGY 5140/6140 - Spring 2009 490 INSCC MWF 9:40-10:30 AM
Text: "Radar for Meteorologists" - by Ronald Rinehart. Fourth Edition
Instructor: John Horel INSCC 483 581-7091 jhorel@met.utah.edu
U of U Meteorology website: http://www.met.utah.edu
METEO 5140/6140 website: http://www.met.utah.edu/class/jhorel/5140
See also webCT page
Course Overview
The focus of this course is split between technology (active remote sensors, i.e., radars and profilers) and physical concepts (organized convection).
We will depend heavily on the computer lab resources but
I'll also rely on webCT to handle assignments, etc. and COMET modules to provide additional relevant content outside of the class room.
We'll also be examining weather events as they happen during the spring, so the course content is not cast in stone.
Class Hours: Grading: Grades will be based upon your performance on the assignments and exams. The weighted contribution of each of these items to your final grade is given below and differs for undergrads compared to grad students. Note that there is no final exam. Because of the upcoming qualifier for grad students and graduation for seniors, I tend to front load the class with greater expectations early in the semester.
Assignments apply and extend what is discussed in class. Much of the most important learning takes place when you are expected to apply the material covered in the lectures. You are encouraged to work on the assignments with other students, but do not copy from anyone. Late assignments will not be accepted; so turn in as much as you get done by the deadline.
The class project has been changed from that originally stated. You will help analyze the Christmas 2008 storm on the mesoscale as part of the capstone project for the synoptic class. Your contribution as part of this class will entail a detailed analysis of selected mesoscale aspects of the storm using mesonet, satellite, and radar.
Final grades are based on the following scale: Sometimes cutoff points are adjusted to produce more natural
break-points and a reasonable distribution of grades, but don't
count on it.
Other Class Policies:
Students must take every exam with exceptions governed by University Policy. Plagiarizing, copying, cheating or otherwise misrepresenting ones' work will not be tolerated and will be dealt with as harshly as permitted under University Policy. Do not break the scientific code of honor.
I will not take attendance, but keep in mind that this course moves at a rapid pace. Missing just one class can result in a lack of understanding in future classes. The course notes are an ancillary resource, not a substitute for class.
Completing assignments and meeting project deadlines thoroughly and on time is a critical factor for your success in this course.
ADA Accommodations: The University of Utah seeks to provide equal access to its programs, services, and activities for people with disabilities. If you will need accommodations in the class, reasonable prior notice needs to be given to the Center for Disability services, 162 Olpin Union Building, 581-5020 (V/TDD). CDS will work with you and the instructor to make arrangement for accommodations. All written information in this course can be made available in alternative format with prior notification to the Center for Disability Services.
Substantial additional time outside of the class is expected to complete reading and computer assignments. The 490 INSCC computer lab tends to be booked up, so plan accordingly.
Assignments
Class project
Midterm 1
Midterm 2
> 90 % guarantees an A or A-
> 80 % guarantees a B+, B, or B-
> 70 % guarantees a C+, C, or C-
> 60 % guarantees a D+, D, or D-
< 60% results in an E
