Problem Sets

Problem Set #1

Here is a useful topography/isostasy model.
See brief article about "liquefaction of quicksand under stress"
undergraduate histogram, graduate histogram

Problem Set #2
undergraduate histogram, graduate histogram

Problem Set #3
undergraduate histogram, graduate histogram

Exams

Sample Midterm

Midterm Exam
undergraduate exam histogram, undergraduate exam+PS1+PS2 histogram, graduate histogram

How Am I Doing? A Mid-term Assessment For undergraduates, we have made a histogram of the TOTAL of each student’s point totals from PS1 + PS2 + the midterm. This is a good way to see how you are doing overall in the class to date, although it doesn’t count how your group presentation went or what your level of class participation has been.

Also, we look for positive trajectories in your performance. For example, if you miss something on a problem set, but on an exam show that you now do understand the material, we take this into account. These point totals don't reflect that level of assessment.

• If your point total is above 50, you are on track to pass this class.
• If your total is below 50, you need to step it up to pass this class.
• If you are in the 40-50 range, you have the best chance to improve your performance to a level at C and even above C.
• If your total is below 40, you are currently not on a passing trajectory in this class. You will need to drastically improve your performance in order to pass this class.

Remember that a point is a point in this class. Remaining assignments include PS3, the proposal and its presentation, and the comprehensive final exam.

I also take note of class and section attendance. I do this because the material that we cover in class is the core of what I assess and because experience has shown me that lack of regular attendance often correlates with less-than-optimal performance on the problem sets and exams. Section attendance allows Cecily a better chance to get an in-person assessment of how well you understand the class material, as well as how much effort you are putting into gaining this understanding.

Final Exam

last updated 11/26/07