Topic #1 - Air Masses and Fronts

You can earn up to 7 points for report content and up to 5 pts for writing quality.
^mYou can earn an additional 4 points by correctly analyzing a surface weather map worksheet (worksheet example)
   (click here to download the worksheet in Microsoft WORD format)

Content

What characteristics are used to distinguish between different types of air masses?  You should briefly describe the main air mass types (mP, mT, cP, cT, and perhaps cA).
You should briefly discuss warm and cold fronts in your report (in my opinion the figures are more helpful than the text).  Try to imagine you are explaining or describing warm and cold fronts to someone unfamiliar with them.   Then try to add to the material we have covered in class by discussing, for example, occluded fronts, stationary fronts, dry lines, or perhaps squall lines. 

Writing Quality

Explain the material in your own words - your report should be your understanding and explanation of the material.  Avoid generalites, try to  should include specific details and examples from the reading section.  The separate sections or paragraphs of your paper should blend together into one seamless coherent report.  Your report should be nearly free of misspelled words and grammatical errors.