P121, Spring 2001 - Exam 1 Distribution

means:  P1 16/20, P2 13/20, P3 15/20, P4 15/20, P5 13/20, total 71/100

The total mean is deceptive because of the long tail toward the low end.  If I were to assign letter grades here I would use a mean of something closer to 77.

If you didn't do so well on this exam, remember that I've structured the grading algorithm such that you can get your act together now and do as well as you wish.  You can drop this grade.  On the other hand, this is a warning shot across your bow.  You must examine how you are approaching this course and take corrective action now.  Feel free to come to me for advice.  I can make suggestions that can help many of you substantially.  Take this seriously now if you wish to get a decent grade in this course.  New material will build on everything we covered for exam I.  It will become more and more difficult to catch up as we go.