Finish the 5 Turn-in problems only. Make sure to follow the problem solving rubric
Problem-solving rubric
The goal of the problem sets is to develop problem-solving skills, not just to test your ability to obtain the right answer.
Write homework on a separate sheet of paper, not a printout of the homework assignment. Use the four-stage format below for each problem. This format should become second nature after a couple weeks. While it may seem like many steps, each of these steps is important in the process of problem solving; they are best practices that even an expert does each time he or she solves a problem.
Getting Started State the important information and summarize the problem. If possible, include a diagram/picture. Note any assumptions you’re making.
Devise Plan Devise a plan of attack before diving into the solution. Break down the problem into smaller, manageable segments. Identify which physical principles you can apply.
Execute Plan Carry out your plan, explaining each step. The argument should be easy to follow. Articulate your thought process at each step (including roadblocks). Any variables should be clearly defined, and your diagrams should be labeled. The argument should be easy to follow. Articulate your thought process at each step (including roadblocks). Any variables should be clearly defined, and your diagrams should be labeled. If you get stuck on this step at home, be sure you articulate exactly where you are stuck and what information you would need to continue. Then you can complete this part in class with help from your team and TA.
Using two columns (one column for your step in the problem, and one for the justification) is highly recommended. This serves two purposes: to help you carefully work through problems and prevent mistakes, and to help the grader follow your work so you do not lose points because the grader could not follow your work.
Evaluate Solution Check each solution for reasonableness. There are many ways to justify your reasoning: check the symmetry of the solution, evaluate limiting or special cases, relate the solution to situations with known solutions, check units, use dimensional analysis, and/or check the order of magnitude of an answer.
Individual phase (for homework): Work on homework should be individual before discussion. The work you complete during this phase will be evaluated on effort, not correctness. Attempt to solve each problem using the following 4-step procedure above. Note: If you get stuck in the Execute Plan stage and there is no solution to evaluate, you should still attempt to use estimation skills to get a feeling for what would constitute a reasonable answer to the problem. So don’t just leave this section blank!
It’s ok to try hard and not succeed at first (only your effort is evaluated), but you must fully attempt every problem. This means that there should be work in each of the four steps outlined above. If you reach the Evaluate stage and find that your answer does not seem reasonable, try to describe your thought process so you are prepared for a discussion with your team in class.
