HOW TO DO WELL IN THIS CLASS
I can't guarantee anyone a particular grade, but following these
guidelines has helped students in the past.
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Keep up with the readings. You will notice that the book is designed to
make reviewing the material rather easy. Key terms are set in bold face
type and are listed with page numbers at the end of the chapter. Examples
and diagrams are
also particularly good. The bookstore will purchase texts back
with no extra charge even if they are marked up so use your text like a
workbook. Each of the three exams has 40 multiple choice questions which
require thought and preparation. Those who are unprepared will find the
exams to be very difficult.
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Attend the lectures and take good notes. Sit near the front so you can
see the screen well. Good
notes are essential. Learn to take good notes but still listen to what
is said. Don't just copy material shown on the screen or blackboard.
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Be prepared to ask for clarification, for examples, or for a further explanation
of lecture material. If something is not clear, please speak up. I prefer
that you do this in class, because others may have the same question and
also this will make the lectures more interesting for everyone. But you
may talk with me after class or in my office if you prefer.
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Get to know some of your classmates. You may be able to help each other
with notes if you miss a class, you may be able to form a study group,
or share notes if someone misses a day.
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Let me know in advance if you are going to miss a class. A
phone message will do. Then, if I take attendance that day I will
give you the extra credit as if you were there.
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If you know you will miss an exam or the paper due date, arrange a different
time in advance. If you miss one without advanced notice,
follow up immediately. As soon as I go over the exams, there
are no more make-ups.
- Keep track of your progress in the course. Several times during the
term, I will attempt to post scores in a way that you will easily see your
standing in the course. There should be no surprises at the end of the
term. Cheating will result in an F for the class.
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Don't miss an examination or paper assignment. That would be a sure
way to drop your grade by one or two letters.