I loathe... (part 9)

I loathe enforcing my syllabus.
I loathe discussing why learning math is beneficial, especially when the intended audience isn't listening.
I loathe schedule conflicts.

Student Quotes

"Trinomial times Trinomial! Hold on. Better turn my paper to landscape." 

 

"Monomial? I thought you said Malt-o-Meal." 

"Someone left their fingernail on my keyboard. I'm not going to touch it - it isn't on a key I use much anyway."

Have a merry dead week and a happy finals week, too!

Advice from a College Math Instructor (part 1)

This new idea for a post came from an encounter with a student today. I thought I would advise (rant) about general college behaviors along with math study tips.

Today's Topic: Special Favors

• Don't ask for extra credit or special favors in front of the rest of the class.
• If you ask for extra credit, extensions, answers to a test, or other special favors that make your life easier, then, when you receive a polite no, don't laugh and pretend you were just kidding.
• Don't ask for special favors multiple times per meeting and pretend you are kidding.
• Don't criticize the class or instructor for a mistake you made in regards to special favors, especially in front of other students.
• If you are always asking for special favors, then complain when it appears someone else got one (when they didn't), then you probably won't receive one in the future.