GEOGRPH 103 - Weather and Climate - Mary Bates

Introduction

Hi, I'm Professor Mary Bates. I love Geography as well as Geology, and have been teaching it all since 1999.  I love maps, knowing where places are located, why some places are always humid, why some places have such extreme winters, and why deserts exist.  I love our crust and what it is made of, too.  I also love all the varieties of people and cultures on Earth, and what makes everyone so incredibly unique. In this Weather and Climate class, you'll learn global atmospheric patterns that help to determine how people live in their locations, and adapt to change.  Life is quite variable and exciting, so I hope you catch my passion for learning about it.

Is this your first college course?  Did you grow up speaking a language other than English?  Are you the first in your family to attend college?  Do you have family to care for? Are you worried about being prepared to take this science class?  Do you think you are too old, too young, too poor, or too busy to be here?  Do social and health issues concern you?  Are you afraid you may not belong because you are different from others?  Well, THIS IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR YOU!  You have a voice, I honor all your questions, I can learn from you, I love all diverse expressions of people, and I am also here to help you succeed.  You may write out any questions through Canvas Inbox messaging, or I can meet with you in person in the library, or on Zoom - at most any time that suits you.  I’ll reword things several times over if you need it (like I did!) And I hope you may begin to love Geography a bit as much as I do.   Yes, you can do well in this class and be amazed at all you will learn.

Course Description

You will be introduced to why different weather systems happen, such as rain, snow, wind, tornadoes, hurricanes, and dry periods.  You will learn about different climates, why they exist where they do on Earth, and how climates have changed over time, and continue to do so.  

You'll be able to examine the influences of the Earth/Sun relationship on weather and climate.     

You'll also be able to compare, contrast, and analyze interactions among Earth's atmosphere, other Earth systems, global climates, and the effects of humans on the natural environment

What to Expect in this Course

Is an online class right for you?

Basic required technical and personal study skills needed:

• Basic computer literacy, including skills in Internet navigation and basic document creation. 
• Reliable, consistent Internet access such as Firefox, Explorer, Safari, Google Chrome, etc.). 
• There is a student Canvas app, but it is not as complete as a computer version.  Do not expect to take this class on your phone only!
• You may want to create a free Zoom account for synchronous office hours if you choose. (https://zoom.us)
• Access to word processing, such as Microsoft Word or Google docs, required.
• You will need either a printer or knowledge of editing a pdf  in order to submit exercises.  
• You will need either a scanner or use a free scanning app - Genius Scan is one option.
• A 16wk course format requires at least 5 hours/week of your time.  An 8wk format requires at least 10 hours/week of your time.
• Students who do well in online courses tend to share the following qualities:
  • They are very self-motivated, consistently meet deadlines ahead of time, to bypass any tech issues.
  • They do not take shortcuts by asking AI, without reading the material presented by professors.
  • They are strong, critical readers and communicate clearly and effectively.
  • They often communicate with the professor, via inbox messaging, or through Zoom office hours.
  • They have strong time management skills.
  • They do not plagiarize or cheat

Types of Assessments

You will be graded on written exercises and online discussion boards each week, as well as online exams every few weeks.

Your answers need to come from the material I provide in the modules.  AI does not get everything correct, so please do not attempt to bypass studying my power points and tutorials, by just plugging a question into Google or any form of AI.  Your grade will decline substantially if I suspect answers are from any form of AI.  Listen, read, and watch the material I provide in each module.  Believe me, you'll be glad you did.  If you wish to discuss any answers with me or ask for clarification, that is what I'm here for - to help you learn it.  Please communicate with me.  

Your total grade will be calculated:

• 90% + = A
• 80-89% = B
• 70-79% = C
• 60-69% = D
• 59% and lower = F

Textbook Information

I will provide all learning material you will need.  No textbook is required to purchase. 

Other Relevant Course Information

You will do best if you contact me with questions, ideally through Zoom, since I can describe, model and draw figures to help you learn.  I am also available for Q&A via messaging, although Zoom allows for better communication and learning.  I am here for you at most times.  I know, I've already said this several times... please chat with me for any question. 

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 01/15/2026 Sub#: 2004 Sub ID: 206686