Case Study

Tips for Success

• Start with the basics: Review how ENSO works: what triggers El Niño and La Niña and how they alter ocean–atmosphere circulation.
• Be precise with data: Fill in all data tables carefully and double-check values against contour plots. Correctly identifying the thermocline depth and interpreting trends is key to scoring well.
• Visual clarity matters: Label axes, legends, and units clearly in all graphs. Your dual-axis ENSO and hurricane plot should be easy to read and interpret.
• Connect patterns to processes: Don’t just describe trends — explain why they occur and what they mean for weather, ecosystems, and society.
• Use evidence in your explanations: When interpreting ENSO impacts, support your reasoning with data patterns from your graphs and tables.

Pre-Submission Checklist:

Data Analysis & Graphs

☑ Temperature tables are fully filled in with accurate data from contour plots. ☑ Temperature vs. depth profiles for east and west Pacific are correctly plotted and clearly labeled. ☑ ENSO anomaly vs. hurricane frequency graph is complete, dual-axis, and labeled.

Interpretation & Explanation

☑ Key features like thermocline depth, SST gradients, and wind patterns are identified and discussed. ☑ Analysis compares conditions across different ENSO phases and interprets atmospheric consequences. ☑ Precipitation pattern maps are completed, labeled, and connected to ENSO scenarios.

☑ Broader environmental and societal impacts are explained clearly, with examples. ☑ ENSO–hurricane relationships are described, with discussion of patterns and anomalies.

Final Check

☑ All figures and tables have titles, units, and legends. ☑ Responses are written in full sentences and use clear scientific reasoning. ☑ File is saved as a PDF