Grading Guidelines For Homework

1. Grade each problem consistent with the following scale:

0 - The problem was not attempted.

1 - The problem was attempted, but contains substantial conceptual errors or only a small part was done.

4 - The problem is essentially correct, but there are minor errors in computation or presentation

5 - The problem is perfect.

2. The Writing Guidelines should be followed. Students should pay particular attention to the sections addressing format (neatness) and clarity.

3. Answers should be stated in complete sentences* that reflect the actual situation given in the problem. Even problems that only ask for a graph, computation, or number often need a word or two to place the answer in context. Ocassionally several related problems can share a common introduction that sets the context for all of them.

4. Problems whose solution is not immediately obvious should have clear explanations of the main points to help the reader understand the method of solution.

5. Multiple sheets must be stapled together before coming to class. The top sheet must have the students name, etc in the format given in the “Written Homework” section of the Course Information page.

6. If an answer is incorrect, briefly write the correct answer or indicate what needs to be done as an aid to the student. Comments can be brief, but give some indication of what needs to be done at least for the more serious errors.

7. Weight the total score so that a perfect paper would receive a score of 10. In other words, the score for the assignment is twice the average of the scores on the individual problems.

7. If there is not enough time to examine each problem thoroughly, then pick a representative subset of the problems and use them to determine the score.

8. Be sure it is clear to the student exactly how the score for the assignment was determined.

*See Writing Guidelines for decription of complete sentences in math.