Module manager: Juliane Schwendike
Email: J.Schwendike@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
Familiarity with vector calculus, differentiation (including vector differentiation), integration, and partial differential equations.
| SOEE3151 | Dynamics of Weather Systems |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module covers advanced principles in Meteorology with an emphasis on a physical understanding of the evolution of weather systems and on practical techniques of weather prediction, including those used by forecasters and other professionals. it includes methods for analysis and prediction of weather on local and regional scales in the midlatitudes and tropics, including the evolution of cyclones, fronts, hurricanes and other weather systems, as well as the influence of mountains on atmospheric flows and weather. An individual project is part of the module and allows in-depth independent study of a particular topic using peer-reviewed research articles. This module is suitable for students studying any of the Sciences, including Maths, Physics, Natural Sciences, Physical Geography, and Engineering. It is also of interest to students who enjoy outdoors and weather forecasting, and wish to expand their understanding of the natural environment. This module is taught in semester 2 and is assessed by a one-hour examination and an independent research project.
The objectives of the module are to:
1- Facilitate understanding of the key concepts of midlatitude and tropical weather systems.
2- Support students in analysing meteorological data and applying midlatitude dynamics to a case study.
3- Facilitate understanding of different methods used to identify the main drivers of selected weather systems.
4- Provide students with the opportunity to apply the concepts and conceptual modules to a variety of real-life problems.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1- Recognise and apply subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts and principles in the dynamics of weather systems.
2- Interpret a variety of meteorological weather charts.
3- Solve numerical problems relating to weather systems using computer and non-computer-based techniques.
4- Prepare, process, interpret and present results, using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1- Problem solving and analytical – Ability to apply dynamical concepts to a variety of weather systems.
2- Information technology skills - Ability to develop Python code to analyse and visualise data in order to apply dynamical concepts to a real-life example.
3- Critical thinking - Analysing, synthesising and summarising information critically, including prior research and your own analysis results.
4- Academic writing and referencing - Finding and using peer-reviewed research articles to develop in-depth understanding of complex dynamical processes in the atmosphere.
5- Time management and planning - Developing the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (e.g., working independently, time management and organisation skills).
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Practical | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Private study hours | 125 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 25 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
The students will receive formative feedback in the practical classes where we will discuss solutions to question sheets which the students will prepare at home.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Coursework | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 1.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 29/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team