AdviCe and required procedures when doing homework problems for Dr. Godwin:

  1. Always draw a diagram. Be as specific as possible. Label everything.
  1. On each problem, start from the basic equations in their original form (or basic ideas, written in words!) and show all your work. Do not pick some magical formula that came about from a specific example in the book or class. Work down the page in an orderly fashion.
  1. Be as neat as possible. Leave ample room between problems, usually 2 or 3 lines. Do not try to squeeze everything onto one page or one side of the page. If your homework is not reasonably legible it will not be graded.
  1. It is best and expected that you solve the equation(s) for the appropriate variable(s) before substituting any known numerical values. (Projectile motion and linear circuits are often exceptions to this.)
  1. Annotate your calculation with a description of your approach. State in words what equation(s) you are using, why you are using them, and the physics that justifies their use.
  1. It is not necessary to show all the arithmetic. But when substituting numbers always include units and carry them to the end of the problem. Units must be included in all calculations to earn full credit. Any number that is not a ratio must include a unit.
  1. Double check that the units are correct and specify magnitude and direction for vector quantities. Use proper scientific notation where appropriate. For example, an answer such as 7.3 E5 is NOT acceptable. That E5 is calculator notation. 7.3  105 is correct.
  1. Does your answer seem reasonable? Is it complete?
  1. Rewrite your final answer below your work. Highlight the answer by underlining it, placing a box around it, etc. For example, like this:
  1. Turn your homework in before class begins. As you walk in the classroom there should be a folder on my desk, or at least a growing pile of papers. Homework not turned in before class begins will be counted as late. (Leniency will be granted only when a teacher holds you late in class.)
  1. Five points will be deducted from homework that is submitted the same day it is due but late. Five more points will be deducted for each subsequent day late, including Saturdays and Sundays. Clearly any excused absences will be accepted with no penalty, the next day you return to class.
  1. When the homework is returned, review your mistakes. If you don’t understand see me for further explanation.
  1. Calvin’s method is not recommended.

(copyright © 2000 Universal Press Syndicate. Calvin and Hobbes)