Approach The course introduces students to the language and practice of Earth system science, to methods used to pose and test hypotheses, and the logic used in developing conceptual models. The course provides an introduction to Earth system science as it is actually practiced, and is not just a broad survey. We try to stress the basic approach to scientific thinking and procedures, and use Earth system science as an example of the activity of science as a whole. Both the lecture and laboratory components involve quantitative aspects, and demand a level of mathematical competence consistent with the University's Basic Skills requirement in mathematics. The essays will be critiqued and graded for both content and writing.
Assignments are to be turned in during class on the specified due date.
No credit for late homework. The formal reports will be critiqued and graded for both content and writing. The other lab reports will ask for answers to specific questions, graphing and interpretation of global or local data sets. Labs will be given out in advance, or other instructions will be given prior to each lab session.