MTMW12-Introduction to Numerical Modelling

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: A-level further mathematics or equivalent in modules in mathematics at undergraduate level.
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Hilary Weller
Email: h.weller@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

We will derive and analyse a number of numerical methods for solving the type of equations used in atmosphere and ocean modelling. Students will implement some of these methods using the Python programming language, analyse the results and write reports.

Aims:

The aim of this module is to familiarise the students with a range of concepts and techniques used in the numerical modelling of atmospheric and oceanic fluid flows.  This will include mathematical analysis, modelling and some good programming practices.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module students should be able to:

• Derive finite difference approximations using Taylor series;


• Explain the concept of stability and perform a basic stability analysis;


• Implement and test the behaviour of numerical schemes using Python;


• Recognise sourcesof numerical error and derive and measure order of accuracy;


• Use Fourier series for analysing both numerical methods and climate data;


• Use functions and loops in Python and avoid code duplication;


• Describe various properties of numerical methods such as conservation and boundedness;


• Collaborate on writing code in groups;


• Design experiments to test the properties of numerical methods.

Additional outcomes:

Students will develop skills of working to deadlines and preparing clear, concise written reports.

Outline content:

The lecture content covers:

• Derive finite difference approximations using Taylor series;


• Differential equations with time and space derivatives;


• Techniques for solving the diffusion equation and the advection equation;


• Use of Fourier series:


• Python including use of functions and testing.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures, computing practical classes and written reports on practicals.  

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	14
Practicals classes and workshops	18
Guided independent study:	68
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	60
Class test administered by School	40

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

1 hour 50 minute class test at the end of the module during the Autumn term. Answer all  questions.

Written exam worth 40%. 55% is made up of 2 assignments involving programming and report writing worth 20% and 35%. The 35% assignment will involve team work and staged submission.  Students receive 5% of the final module total for participating in a peer assessed assignment.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The below information applies to students on taught programmes except those on Postgraduate Flexible programmes. Penalties for late submission, and the associated procedures, which apply to Postgraduate Flexible programmes are specified in the policy 'Penalties for late submission for Postgraduate Flexible programmes', which can be found here: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmissionpgflexible.pdf
The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:
For candidates who have failed, an opportunity to take a resit examination will be provided within the lifetime of the course.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 30 March 2023