• WileyPlus Learning Spaces with eBook is available separately (978-1118994320) for
  • $106.95 at Wiley Student Bookstore Online
  • $130.00 at the UVa Bookstore
• WileyPlus Learning Spaces with eBook and Print Book are available as a bundle (978-1119228714) for
  • $142.95 at Wiley Student Bookstore Online
  • $173.33 at the UVa Bookstore
    

Note: if you are comfortable reading and annotating online, using the eBook, you can choose not to purchase a print book.

The problem sets are assigned on the WileyPlus website for this class. Each set is worth a total of 100 points and contains approximately 10 multiple-choice questions. The questions are generally conceptual in nature and should require independent thought rather than mindless calculation.

The problem sets are not pledged work and you may discuss them with other students and the instructor after you have thought about them yourself. The true purpose of these problem sets is to help you understand the material, not to assign grades, so there is no value in struggling unsuccessfully to understand them on your own.

I have observed over the years, however, that students who simply copy answers from other students or from the instructor, and who don't make a serious effort to understand why those answers are correct, do poorly on the exams. It's in your best interest to work on the problems yourself at first and to seek help from others only when you are having trouble making headway. Similarly, you provide the best help to others when you guide them back onto the correct path, rather than simply giving them an answer.

Problem sets are due by the start of class (1:00:00pm) on the dates listed on the course schedule. Late problem sets are acceptable for reduced credit until 4 days (96 hours) after the due date. The maximum credit is 80% during the first 24 hours, 60% during the second 24 hours, 40% during the third, and 20% during the fourth.

WileyPlus Learning Spaces includes the eBook and a variety of other learning tools. 10% of your semester score will be based on Learning Spaces activities. I am still learning about those activities, so check here in a week or two for a description of what is expected of you.

Your course grade will be based strictly on your overall numerical score for the semester. I do not curve the individual scores for problem sets and exams. Students with overall numerical scores near the class average receive approximately a middle-"B" for the semester. Those with scores significantly above class average may receive an "A" or even higher for the semester. Those with scores significantly below class average may receive a "C" or even lower for the semester. I determine the distribution of grades at the end of the semester, based on a historical distribution. In a typical semester, about 30% of students get "A"-range grades, 50% get "B"-range grades, and about 15% get "C"-range scores. I give both "A+" and "F" grades every semester.

Problem sets not submitted or tests not taken will receive scores of zero. You are responsible for remembering the due dates and test times, so don't miss them!