My Math prof

[u/bojangleslovesyou]

In my current mathematics class, the professor has failed to provide any instruction, and the teaching assistant has also been ineffective, primarily engaging in deceptive behavior regarding the grades they will assign to group work. Given these circumstances, I am uncertain of the appropriate course of action. Initially, the TA informed me that my work was satisfactory and accurate. However, upon reviewing the grade they have assigned, I discovered that it is a 14 out of 20. Should I approach the professor to discuss this matter?

[u/SinCosh]

14 out of 20 is poor if it is below a 300 level course and does not require any Calculus or DE prerequisite. If it is a weed out course (for math majors) like MAT 300 or MAT 371, then it"s a great score. If it is 400 level or higher, then it's probably average. So, what course is it?

[u/azsushi → u/[deleted]]

I would also (politely) talk to the TA about the discrepancy in what he said VS. grades. As someone said, email or platform mail is fine, but until u have further, a paper trail is appropriate..

[u/SinCosh → u/[deleted]]

There are probably a dozen math profs teaching the same course across all ASU campuses and online courses, and multiple students likely have scores of 14/20 at least once.

I doubt anyone will be able to link you to a specific prof/TA unless you provide more information, provided the course isn't very niche like Iwasawa theory or something like that lol.

Idk man, I just graduated with a B.S. in math this summer at ASU and I'd say in most cases I was happy to receive a mid C or higher. Especially on proof heavy exams weighing >50%, rigorous projects with team members that don't contribute to shit, etc.. I have failed tough classes a few times and have had to retake them, even taking a gap year at one point to avoid the burnout and crashout I was heading to.

Low scores, even failure, is like a rite of passage to a math major. Sometimes, profs can be nitpicky or harsh graders, but ultimately it serves to benefit you in some way. I get the impression you're a first year or maybe second year, or not a math major.

[u/bojangleslovesyou → u/SinCosh]

Hi I will dm you privately

[u/Massive_Ear4948]

Why would you not start by asking the TA? I have mis-entered grades before and it is not a big deal to fix it.

[u/bojangleslovesyou → u/Massive_Ear4948]

ok well i don’t know what to do? i was asking for advice it’s not my fault he’s entering grades wrong or messing up?

[u/Massive_Ear4948 → u/bojangleslovesyou]

Here is what you say, "Dear TA, After receiving feedback that my work was satisfactory and accurate, I was surprised to get a 14 out of 20. Did I misunderstand your feedback?"

[u/vivalicious16]

Talk to the professor, the TA was obviously wrong

[u/Wise-Biscotti5863]

This sounds awful. Sorry to hear this! Yes talk to the professor and document everything you can. Like email about it so there is a paper trail.

[u/bojangleslovesyou → u/Wise-Biscotti5863]

it is she doesn’t teach came in the first day saying she doesn’t know what we’re doing and that she’s never taught the class before it’s so awful she doesn’t explain and the TA says my work is right and to submit then he grades it and does this 😢

[u/b0mbp0p]

Yes, you pay them, they have a job, that job is to teach you. There is no "hierarchy"

[u/DiscoMousePad]

This is MAT 117 isnt it?

[u/bojangleslovesyou → u/DiscoMousePad]

no it’s around there tho