AST 3043
TESTS AND GRADING
There are two tests scheduled for the regular class period. These so-called hour tests, which are scheduled for the entire period in the regular classroom, are non-cumulative, with approximately 45 multiple-choice questions each. The test dates are May 30 and June 20. On the class day immediately preceding each test date there will be time reserved to answer questions pertaining to the test. To get an idea of what kind of questions may be on the tests you can look at some of the old tests. These are from fall and spring terms, when I give three over the semester instead of just two. That means that there's not as much covered on one of those as on the summer test; on the other hand, I don't cover quite as much material in the summer as in fall or spring. You can also see how the grades ended up the last time the course was taught at the old grades Web page.
Normally there's a final examination in the course, which is cumulative and optional for students who have taken all the hour tests. However, because of time constraints in the summer there will be no final.
If it should become necessary for some unforeseen reason to reschedule and/or relocate a test, the change(s) will be announced in class and posted on the Web at the messages page in a timely manner.
In addition to the tests there's a homework project in several parts involving the use of an almanac. The purpose is to let students see for themselves (at least on paper) some of the basic rhythms of astronomical phenomena (and some of the variations), especially on a level akin to that of early civilizations. Detailed instructions are given on the Web along with the deadline for turning it in.
The numerical grade in the course is computed on the basis of the following percentages:
The grade scale applied to the numerical course grade is as follows:
A = 90 and up
B+= 85-89
B = 80-84
C+= 75-79
C = 70-74
D+= 65-69
D = 60-64
E = 0-59
Grades are rounded to the nearest whole percent when computing the test grade and when computing the overall course grade; e.g., 84.5 becomes 85. If necessary grades will be curved upwards. I now post them on the Web according to a two-letter ID based on your five-digit exam number from the first hour test. That same two-letter ID will be used for all your grades in the course throughout the term.