Homework:
Each homework problem will receive two sets of marks, one for mathematical exposition normally graded 0, 3, or 5 on a 5 point scale and one for logical correctness normally graded 0, 5, 7, 8, 9, or 10 on a 10 point scale.
By mathematical exposition I mean the way you present your solution.
A solution worthy of full marks for mathematical exposition is
a well-organized combination of mathematical symbols, equations, inequalities,
and complete English sentences that conveys clearly what you are trying
to
do and why. (Hint: Your text and the solved problems in most mathematics
books usually provide illustrations of good
mathematical
exposition.)
Of course, good mathematical exposition and logically correct argumentation
are closely related but they are not the same. It is conceivable that
a grade of 0 + 10 = 10 or 5 + 0 = 5 could be given for a particular
solution.
IMPORTANT: I will not spend time grading work that is sloppy and/or
visually hard to read -- such work will receive low marks both for mathematical
exposition and for logical clarity regardless of any merit that may lie
beneath the surface.
IMPORTANT: I will grade your homework with the following audience in
mind. Your solutions should make sense to a typical upper division mathematics student who is conscientiously
trying to learn the material but is not a math wiz. The link that follows
takes you to an excellent homework
assignment done by a MTH 306H student.
It illustrates the quality of work I expect to see to receive full marks for exposition and mathematical correctness. The student typed the homework but that is not what is excellent about
it. The explanations given hit all the key points, and equations are justified
and linked with supporting verbal explanations that any MTH
306 student can follow and benefit from reading.