Final grades for this course will be computed based on cumulative points (out of 1000 total) in the areas below, according to the weights listed:
Homework assignments.................................330 points
In-Class assignments.......................................70 points
Midterm exams...............................................320 points
Final exam.......................................................280 points
Final letter grades will be curved, based on the total points received.
Homework will generally be assigned once a week, due the following week, and must be turned in by 9:00AM to the trays in the front of the lecture room. Late homework will not be accepted without documented evidence of illness or other University-approved excused absence.
In-Class assignments in discussion section may include short quizzes, group activities, participation exercises, etc.
There will be two in-class midterm exams, and an in-class final exam. Students who are unable to attend an exam due to illness or other valid excuse must contact the professor before the scheduled exam time, and will be expected to document the reason for the absence and make up the test as soon as possible afterwards.
Except for an optional Astronomy Open House assignment (to be passed out in class), points will not be given for any ``extra credit projects.'' It is important to complete all assignments by the due date in order to remain up-to-date, and to earn the maximum credit you can.
University regulations regarding academic dishonesty will apply to all work performed for credit in this course.
Students with a documented disability who wish to discuss academic accommodations should contact the professor as soon as possible.