So, it's November 10th and midterm time (the most wonderful time of the year, NOT) are coming around the corner in a month. Now these usually consist of a multiple choice, essay, or fill in the blank exam that takes anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours. Well, what if I said for two of my classes, I didn't have to take these tests. Pretty good deal, right? No, no, no!!!
For one class, instead of an exam, I have to write three papers (in addition to papers assigned for the class) that have to be peer reviewed and go through many revisions. For another class, I have a group project (a twenty-five page paper with at least 20 appendix pages fully referenced and a presentation). Now many of you might think that this is a good deal, but I definitely don't. I'd much rather just be over and done with the test and try to forget about the bad grade that might result.
What do you think? Paper or exam? I guess it really depends on the person. Maybe you like that more cumulative aspect of papers. Me, I just like the idea of one test where I do my time taking the test and can celebrate after.
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Well, I like research papers. I love the exercise and mental stimulation of writing. The easiest are the exams, though. Pfft. It's like you circle some answers, write a short or long answer for some, fill in the blank. That's what most of my exams have been like. I don't know about you but that is the easiest part of college right now. All the in between work is harder; the reading approx. 50 pages a day, etc.
I fear no man(Nazgul)...i'm no man(Eowyn) -LoTR
It sounds crazy but I would rather write a huge paper and have it done than obsess over a test forever because I know nothing. Papers are usually more specific in nature so you only really have to focus on a few things, not the entire span of the class.