In class on October 2nd, we discussed some important things about the exam. First, though the
scores were very low, this is pretty usual for a first exam in my class. Second, we will curve this
grade, depending on the scores on the second and third exam. I'll take the means of those two exams,
and get a "target mean". If the exam 2 mean is 79, and exam 3 mean is 81, the "target mean" will be
80. I'll then subtract the mean from the first exam (for this example 80-60=20) and that new number
will be the number of points I'll add to the first exam. In this way, as long as the grades of the
class go up on the next exams, you can't be hurt by a bad first exam grade. Please let me know
if you have any questions about this!
Remember, since there is a cummulative portion on the final, it is a good idea to review your old
exams. I'll have them with me every day we have class, so you can always see them. Also, you can
make an appointment to meet with me and look over your exam. Especially if your grade wasn't what you'd
hope, please talk to me about questions you missed!
