Q: How can I get an A in this course?
While there's no guaranteed way to get an A, my best advice is that you work (correctly) through every single homework problem assigned, and understand deeply why you got the correct answer. Of course, that's easier said than done, so here are a few tips to help you succeed: (1) Read through online notes before each lecture. Even better if you can read a few lectures ahead. Note down the things you don't understand in the notes. (2) Come to lecture! Statistics show that students who sit in the front get better grades than those sitting in the back. Those who skip lecture do the worst. (3) Ask questions in lecture when you don't understand. Don't be embarrassed, chances are quite high that others in the class have the same question in their heads. (4) Don't waste a lot of time working on questions when you can't get the right answer. If you're still stuck, come see your TA or me during office hours. (5) Start early, and don't fall behind. Students who do well in this course often spend about 10-20 hours each week (outside of lecture and recitation) reading and re-reading through the notes and text, and asking questions, while they work on the homework assignments.
Q: Will you grade on a curve?
Yes! How your numerical grade gets translated into a letter grade is not decided until the end of the semester. There are a number of factors that need to be taken into account to make sure your letter grade is assigned fairly, and many of these are not known until then.
Q: I didn't take one of the prerequisite courses. Will I be okay in this class?
It's almost certain that you will NOT do well. This course assumes you are already familiar with a number of difficult concepts in math, physics, chemistry.
Q: I will miss or I missed the quiz. Can I take it early or make it up?
A: No. You will take more than 10 quizzes this semester, but only the 10 highest quiz scores will be counted. If miss a quiz for whatever reason, you can drop it as one of your low quiz scores.
Q: What if I miss two or more quizzes?
A: Then you will get a zero for those quizzes, and you overall grade will suffer. Try not to miss any quizzes!
Where can I find a good cup of coffee in Columbus?
Well, in my opinion, Stauf's in Grandview has some of the finest coffee in Columbus, but my personal favorite is Luck Bros' Coffee House in Grandview. You might even catch me in either of these places during the weekends. Might come in handy when you're trying to find someone to help you figure out those last few tricky chemistry homework problems!
