REPORT ON RECERTIFICATION OF W COURSE: ATMO 456
 
CERTIFICATION PERIOD: 9/1/22 to 9/1/26                  
 
We recommend that ATMO 456 Practical Weather Forecasting be certified as a writing (W) course. We have reviewed a representative syllabus and have determined that the course meets or exceeds the following criteria: (1) 35% of the final grade is based on writing quality; (2) the total number of words is 7500; (3) the instructor to student ratio is 1:11; and (4) the assigned writing is appropriate to the major.
 
One graduate assistant helps with ATMO 456. Students write a scientific paper or business plan and complete two case studies on forecasting. They submit a draft of the final paper (or business plan) and receive written instructor comment. For instruction, common errors are discussed after students write the first case study; students also can use the written comments on the case studies to help them focus on their particular writing issues. Librarians lecture on citation and appropriate resources, and use of the University Writing Center is encouraged. Plagiarism is also covered.