A3–Grader Comments

1. Most teams did not refer to the class definition in evaluating their structure type as a system.

2. There was a lack of inappropriate typical uses and materials, although everyone remembered to name appropriate ones.

3. Most teams did not include important numeric parameters like deflection criteria or span to height ratio. There also needed to be more elaboration on these parameters.

4. Most teams stated typical numeric parameters but often forgot to include extreme parameters.

5. For the most part, teams handled describing the subsystems of their structures well – there was much detailed description of connections and joints.

6. There was a lack of drawings that showed how loads progressed to the ground. In some diagrams, external loading, in the form of both lateral and vertical loads, was not illustrated.

7. There needed to be more personal annotation of drawings, especially in the case of the drawings that showed loads being channeled to the ground.

8. There was very little written about the different applicable foundation systems and why they were applicable.

9. A fair number of students attempted the extra credit section and were successful in obtaining at least 2 points. 4 teams received an extra credit point in class.

10. Most students took advantage of the web and past submissions in compiling their project’s information. The presentation of graphics and numbers was of excellent quality.

11. On average, students did not convey their assumptions. When making an assumption, the information used (external source, research, or personal knowledge) to make the assumption needs to be documented.

12. Some students relied too heavily on previous submissions, to the point of copying information. One group used a diagram that the grader created and didn’t reference it. Copying will not be tolerated. Previous submissions are for reference only. Diagrams are to be created/described on your own to illustrate your knowledge of the material.

JEM – This is critical – you will fail the assignment and possibly the course if you copy – it’s called plagiarism.

13. REFERENCE your images! If an image is present, describe why it is there. What importance does it have? Also provide information to give credit to the place you got it from.

14. When making assumptions, it is important to document the assumptions made (including personal judgement assumptions). If assumptions aren't documented, the graders have no choice but to assume that aspect of the design was neglected.