Course-level assessment is based upon student performance on assigned homework problems, in-class participation, scores on chapter tests, and the score on a comprehensive final exam. Each component is weighted.
Homework is collected and evaluated throughout the semester. In-class performance is noted daily in a teacher's record book.
Each problem on the 04F final exam was related to the course objectives as listed in the course syllabus. In addition, the scores assigned for each problem completed by the students on the 04F final exam were compared. The average of the scores were calculated.
Scores on all tests taken during the semester were averaged and compared.
Students' transcripts were reviewed to determine readiness for calculus by considering ACT scores, ACCUPLACER scores, and previous mathematics courses.
Course homework is appropriate and completed in above average fashion for 100% of the students. Class participation is excellent for 100% of the students. Very little group work was done.
Each course objective was appropriately measured on the final exam. The average score for each problem on the final indicated that most of the students achieved competency in the objectives except the objectives which included the following concepts: implicit differentiation, optimization problems, integration of trigonometric functions by substitution, and calculating volumes of solids of revolution. These topics involve difficult, multi-step procedures and are challenging concepts.
The average score on the final exam was 81%. The final exam was administered in three parts on three separate days.
Class average chapter test scores ranged from 80% to 90% but scores for problems testing the understanding of important concepts, specifically integration, on both individual chapter tests and the final exam were below average.
All students were appropriately placed in calculus. This was a very bright, high-achieving group of students. ACT scores in mathematics ranged from 21 to 32. They were students who enjoy being challenged.
Course materials appropriately address the course objectives but comprehension and application of the material needs to be increased. The students are learning new techniques but need to appreciate their application in the real world.
Increase use of technology in the classroom, provide a weekly recitation session where students can work on homework and get individual help, improve feedback time to students regarding test results, increase amount of in-class time spent with students at the board work problems.