About Test Corrections

A test is called a “test” for a reason.
It should challenge your understanding and ability to apply concepts.
Learning is a process. You will usually not get everything right the first time. That is fine. Mistakes are part of the process. Learn from them.

Why do test corrections?
It is more than just about a grade. It is important that the test be part of the learning process, not the end of it. It should serve to check your understanding of a unit, but should also help cement your understanding of the material. So it is important to reflect on the test after it is completed. This is particularly true since the material in future units will use material on previous tests as a foundation to build upon.

Test corrections are due one week after the test is returned.
It is important to look at your test while the material is still fresh in your mind to get maximum benefit from the exercise.

Corrections must be on a separate sheet of paper.
This is meant to be an exercise in reflection, not just some notes jotted down in the margin of the test. You should think of test corrections as a resource to be looked at later (such as when you review for the final), so they need to be complete and well organized.

Clearly explain your reasoning.
Test corrections must include a statement of what you did wrong in each case, the actual correction, and a statement of how you know the correction is right.

Use your own words.
The process of completing corrections means that you have worked to understand the material and are presenting your corrections, not someone else’s explanation. You are encouraged to use your book and notes. You may consult with your teacher and classmates. But, ultimately, you are responsible for writing your own corrections, not just copying a correct answer from a classmate.

Getting philosophical.
Long after you have forgotten many of the specific details of any individual class, you will retain the skills of analyzing information, making connections between different ideas, and using available information to make decisions. Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about understanding how to make use of it. By reviewing your test you learn about how you think and approach questions and problems and learn to improve your skill at doing so as well.

By the numbers. The test correction gives a catch-up factor, plus an assignment grade. This works out to a maximum as given by the calculator below.