Iona Prep Physics Grading

 

Iona Prep Physics Problem Grading*

Physics Problem solution guide

When you are given a problem to solve, whether it be a homework assignment or a quiz question, you should bear in mind that a numerical answer without any indication of the reasoning which lead to the answer is worth nothing. It is your job to convince the grader that you know and understand the principle(s) of physics involved and are aware of and can justify any assumptions which you have made along the way.

What follows are general comments about how to construct answers to questions.

General Principle I: Answers require sufficient narration. (Usually "narration" is in the form of equations). It is your responsibility to include enough detail so that the grader knows what principles you applied, understands any simplifying assumptions you made, and can follow the logical steps you made along the way to your solution. It is not necessary to show every algebraic step or every detail of arithmetic computation.

General Principle II: Neatness helps the grader to follow the reasoning. Normally you work from the top down and from left to right on the page. Every equation should include an equals sign.

Grades on a 5-point problem:


5 - The underlying conceptual base which is applied is stated and is appropriate. The algebraic steps are correct. The solution is complete and provides the grader with all necessary background to understand the assumptions made, the principles applied, and the mathematical steps taken to arrive at the answer. The answer is clearly stated with an appropriate label (if necessary).

4 - The underlying conceptual base which is applied is appropriate, but the physical reasoning is not completely correct. The solution is essentially complete, but contains minor mathematical errors. It provides the grader with most of the necessary background to understand the assumptions made, the principles applied, and the mathematical steps taken. However, logical gaps leave the grader uncertain of how or why certain steps were taken.

3 - The underlying conceptual base which is applied is appropriate, but the physical reasoning is either incorrect or incomplete. The solution is essentially complete, but contains mathematical errors which render the final result incorrect. Narration is incomplete, leaving the grader to guess at the assumptions made, the principles applied, and the mathematical steps taken.

2 - The underlying conceptual base which is applied is inappropriate. Physical reasoning is not correct but may be plausible. The solution may appear complete, but contains mathematical errors which render the final result incorrect. Narration is incomplete, leaving the grader to guess at the assumptions made, the principles applied, and the mathematical steps taken.

1 - The underlying conceptual base is inappropriate. Physical reasoning is incorrect. The solution does not even appear to be complete. The narration is lacking.

0 - The solution is unacceptable or no solution is presented.

{*This page is an adaptation/modification of a grading rubric of unknown origin. If the original author contacts the webmaster, credit will be given.)


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Last Update: by Bro. R.W.Harris