This petition is written by students enrolled in CHEM*1050 to formally request a review of the current grading practices used for wet lab assignments, specifically the reliance on automated grading systems with extremely strict numerical tolerances.

Many students have experienced significant mark deductions for answers that are chemically correct and derived using proper methodology, but differ from the auto-grader’s expected value by extremely small amounts (for example, differences due to rounding at the 0.001 level). These deductions do not reflect a lack of understanding of course material and instead penalize students for minor formatting or rounding differences, despite following appropriate significant figure and calculation rules.

In several cases, students have lost a substantial portion of their lab grade solely due to these minimal numerical discrepancies, even when intermediate steps, stoichiometry, and reasoning are correct. This is particularly concerning given that this is the first wet lab for many students and that grading outcomes can be unclear or difficult to interpret from the feedback provided.

We respectfully request the following:
1. A review of the tolerance settings used in the automated grading system for CHEM*1050 labs
2. The implementation of reasonable rounding or tolerance allowances for numerical answers
3. The option for human review or re-evaluation when answers are chemically correct but marked incorrect due to negligible rounding differences
4. Clear and consistent communication of grading expectations regarding rounding and significant figures

This petition is intended to advocate for fair assessment practices that accurately reflect student understanding and effort. We appreciate the time and effort of the instructional team and ask that these concerns be considered to ensure grading is equitable and transparent for all students.

This petition will be shared with the CHEM*1050 instructional team and relevant departmental administrators for review.