PHZ 6426 - SOLID STATE PHYSICS I - FALL 2008


GRADING POLICIES


Grades will be based on two in-class exams (15% ea), one project or paper (10%), a final exam (20%) and homework (40%). There will be approximately 10 homework assignments.

Homework grades will not only depend on the answer obtained but will also reflect neatness, legibility and coherence of presentation. Important details of calculations should be presented in an orderly fashion without the inclusion of irrelevant arguments or unproductive dead ends. Mathematical and graphing aids (Mathmatica, MatLab, Origin, Excel ...) can be used except when noted in the assignment.

Homework is to be turned in by 5:00P on the due date. Homework turned in after the due date and prior to the posting of solutions (~3-5 days) will not be graded in detail and given at most a maximum of 50% credit. Homework turned in after the posting of solutions will receive no credit.

In lieu of a final homework assignment a research paper will be due near the end of the term
(see Course Schedule). The paper topic (or individual project) should be cleared with the Instructor and have a minimum length of ten pages. This includes an abstract, main text, figures and references. A good guide for writing scientific papers can be found on John Wilkin's (Ohio State) Course Page Writing and speaking about physics and astronomy.

Attendance in class is not required but expected, since material outside the textbook may be presented. Students will be responsible for all material covered in the assigned text readings and in class.

ACADEMIC HONESTY


Each student is expected to generate graded work by an individual effort. It is understood that some students benefit from "group study". However, all homework, the two mid-term examinations, and the final examination will be individual efforts, using only the materials authorized by the Instructor. Any violation of this policy will be prosecuted to the full-extent possible (usually a failing grade is given on the assignment). Please review the University Policies on Academic Honesty.