How can you be sure you are able to discriminate between a student who
throws equations at a problem and a student who honestly believes that
he/she has the correct idea?
Besides. I throw equations at problems all the time and I encourage my
student to do so. By writing down all equations that may (or may not)
apply I often get leads to the correct approach. There is a bit of
"right brain" operation (if you believe in left/right brain theory) in
writing out equations so that you can visually see connections,
omission, etc.
I also agree that negative points take away from correct answer scores.
Bit of unfair (but teaching is not fair, it's a benevolant
dictatorship.)
Ray Rogoway - Retired
Formerly of Independence High School
San Jose, CA
The woods are lovely, dark, and deep
And I have no more papers in a heap.
Now in the morning I can sleep
Or travel in the woods so dark and deep.