The primary text for the course is: Segar, Douglas A., 2007, Introduction to Ocean Sciences (2nd ed.). W.W. Norton & Company. Readings will primarily come from the text book. We denote with "CC" below those of Segar's Critical Concepts that relate to our coverage of topics. We have also placed readings on reserve at the Kettering Science Library and on Blackboard. We denote readings on reserve with o.r. below. Reading assignments indicated by an asterisk (*) are recommended but optional; all other assignments are required.

Your grade will be based upon scores in three exams, two scheduled during normal class meeting times and a third scheduled during the final exam period.  We expect you to take the exams at the scheduled times, unless you have a valid conflict, in which case you must arrange a substitute time with us prior to the scheduled exam time

We strongly endorse the principles of the Honor System, which is intended to ensure that students (1) receive appropriate credit for their intellectual work, (2) acknowledge the sources of scholarly and creative work that are not their own, and (3) adhere to any stated guidelines on graded assignments.  For this class, you can confirm your adherence to the Honor system by writing or typing the Honor Pledge ("I affirm that I have adhered to the Honor Code in this assignment.") and signing below it on each of the three exams and on both written commentaries.