Final Exam and Grading Outline

Overview of Final Exam and Grading Policy

• Importance of the final exam in determining overall score.
• Pros and cons of relying solely on the final exam to achieve a desired grade.

Final Exam Scoring

• The final exam is worth five points.
• Example Student Queries:
    - Student asks if they can just turn in the final exam for an improved score:
      - Yes, it can be turned in.
      - If your score on the final (e.g., 76) replaces the lowest exam score, adjustments to the overall grade follow specific rules.
        - Example: Each point above 73 counts double towards replacing the lower score.
        - If the final exam score is above the lowest score, it will replace that score in the calculation.
        - Discussion on how to calculate points added from the final exam based on previous scores.
  
• Key scoring thresholds:
    - 720 points = A
    - 640 points = B
    - 535 points = C

Method of Grading

• Final scores are based on ranking all students’ total scores across sections from highest to lowest.
• Student experiences:
    - Example of not achieving grade break points:
      - One semester, lowest score that achieved an A was 714 points.
      - The significant gap between scores like 714 and 698.

Guidance for Final Exam Decisions

• If your lowest score is significantly below the needed final exam score (e.g., needing 76 for an A), it may be advisable to take the final exam.
• Some students express concern about how a decision not to take the final could affect perceptions from instructors.
• Suggestion: Students should focus on their understanding of their grades and the potential impact of their final exam score.

Credit for Understanding Degrees and Certificates

• Students are expected to read about degrees and certificates offered.
    - Understanding why these are important:
      - Evidence gathered through applications for degrees.
  
• Clarification question posed to students:
    - What are your plans regarding degrees and certificates?
      - You can earn credit (5 points) for informed responses about decisions on degree applications.
  
• Submission details:
    - Turn in responses with the final exam at the same time to avoid losing submissions.

Exam Preparation and Presentation

• Allowing advanced preparation for students concerning exam materials.
• Example of previous course prerequisites that are beneficial, including anatomy and organic chemistry, relevant to future studies (e.g., radiology).
• Note on faculty role:
    - Instructors are unable to access certain application forms for students, creating complications.
  

Final Exam Review Structure

• Students encouraged to check on remaining checkup assignments (Checkups 12 & 13).
    - Recommendation to complete these assignments early to alleviate stress.
    - Emphasis on maintaining a proactive approach in course responsibilities gives a good foundation leading to the final exam.

Questions and Feedback

• Students invited to ask questions to clarify their understanding of the grading system, exam policies, and course expectations.