Quizzes and Tests

Weekly quizzes, four tests, and a final exam will make up most of your grade in the class.

Preparing for the Quizzes and Tests

The quizzes and tests are challenging, and students often ask how they can improve their scores. Here is my advice:

  1. Read or view the assigned texts thoroughly, taking notes. Often, this requires multiple readings or screenings.
  2. While taking notes
    • Pay attention to form as well as content. When reading our textbook, this involves thinking about the structure of the chapter as a whole. What are the major components of the piece, and how are they organized?
    • Make sure that you know the definitions of all key terms and concepts.
    • Make sure that you recognize the names of the primary agents (e.g. authors, leaders, antagonists), places, and events.
    • Make a special effort to connect this material to topics and materials that we have already covered. For example, in what ways are the television and radio industries similar? Different?
  3. Bring your notes with you to class.
  4. Be prepared to offer thoughtful answers to questions and comments posed by me and by your peers. 

Quizzes on the readings and screenings will be given approximately once a week, at the beginning of class.  If you fail to take a quiz during the required timeframe, you will not be able to take it at a later time.

The quiz format will vary, including short answer, fill in the blank, paragraph, multiple choice, etc.

Tests

Four tests, each covering 3-5 chapters in the textbook, will be given throughout the semester. The format will vary, including short answer, fill in the blank, paragraph, multiple choice, etc.

Final Exam

In form, the final exam resembles the quizzes and tests. It is comprehensive, covering all material discussed throughout the semester, and two hours long.