Homework assignments

Homework usually consists of five problems, two of these problems will be randomly graded for a total of 8 MP. Remaining problems will be discussed in class.

Please check the class schedule for problem assignments.

Understanding the problem

Eligibility for credit will be based on one of the following criteria:

FULL credit - Correctly understands the problem.
HALF credit - Problem is misunderstood in a significant way, but is not trivialized.
ZERO credit - Completely misunderstands the problem and/or trivializes the problem.

Scoring

Each graded problem will be scored based on an ordered quadruple (1, 1, 1, 1) based on the following:

Identification of problem-solving strategy used matches the evidence.
Evidence is appropriate for solving the problem.
Written explanation is clear and complete.
(step-by-step format works well)
Final answer is consistent and correct

Problem solving strategies

The table below highlights desired evidence for each problem solving strategy.

Strategy	Evidence	Written explanations
Diagram	Diagram with key and/or key features explained.	Explain how the diagram was developed and/or explain how the diagram solves the problem.
Systematic list	Systematic list with clear headings and/or key.	Explain system for creating list. Explain how the list helps to solve the given problem.
Eliminate possibilities	List possibilities, possibly with a systematic list.	Explain why each possibility is eliminated. Steps work well here.
Matrix logic	Matrix convention: X's for not possible, O's for match. Subscripts useful to denote clues.	Explain adjunct list or other notes. Explain at least 3 key steps for constructing the matrix.
Look for pattern	Identify pattern in words or formula.	Explain how to use pattern to solve problem.
Guess & check	Lucky guessing not allowed, so minimum of 3 guesses is required. Typically organize guessing in a table.	Explain how the incorrect guesses lead to a correct guess.
Subproblems	Explicitly state each subproblem (or question).	Answer each subproblem (or question).
Analyze units	Identify goal, which may focus on units	Clear labels with canceling. Other details to understand solution, like assumptions (e.g., 365.25 days per year).
Easier related problem	Explicitly state the easier problem, including how it is easier or assumptions made.	After solving easier problem, explain what information was gained for actual problem.
Physical representations	Document what manipulatives were used.	Explain solution to problem (visual representations may help).
Work backwards	Shows steps (either forward or backward)	Actions given for steps. Final answer clearly indicated.
Venn diagrams	Provide Venn diagram.	Explain at least two key steps for creating the Venn diagram or using the diagram. Use of ∪ or ∩ are allowed.
Algebra	Define variables. Formulas.	Explain formulas and keep algebraic work clear and organized.
Finite differences	Create finite differences tables.	Show how to solve the formula's coefficients and how to get the answer.
Organize more ways	Give organization (tree diagram or 2D array) with key.	Explain how organization constructed. Explain how organization was used to find answer.
Change focus	Discuss how problem is interpreted with different focus. (e.g., POV, complementary/opposite problem, different representation)	Explain how to solve problem with new focus.