the recent overkill
How should I put this? "Ah, yes."
I am so exasperated today. Upon entering the classroom, my Math professor gave us a pop quiz. It was so sudden, I haven't taken my seat yet. Anyway, my instinct kicked in yesterday and I was able to study in advance. In fact, I've been able to study ahead of the current lesson. I follow a new study plan, which is also out of the blue, if you ask me.
It was a one question pop quiz -- all or nothing. Upon reading the question on the blackboard, I quickly identified the problem as an application of linear function involving two variables. Thank goodness! My advance reading paid off!
I've spent a well ten minutes in solving the problem. It wasn't easy but rigorous checks from my solutions confirmed a hundred percent correct answer. "...And enter the sad part."
My professor noticed that the class is taking too long for it to finish. Everyone, except me, was confused of the problem and, apparently, my classmates don't know the answer. So my professor asked:"Class, have we tackled application of linear functions involving two variables?" The whole class responded with a negative answer. I, on the other hand, kept quiet. All of them were wondering what the professor was talking about.
I didn't want to argue that time, even though I sensed that his statement was somehow open to arguments -- thanks Philosophy I. Plus, everybody was looking at me that time, seeming like they want to rip me to pieces if I say another word.
"Oh, I see. Okay, I'll change the question then."
And my world suddenly turned upside- down. I yelled in my head. "Sir, sir! I've been able to answer the question. Would that count?"
"I'm sorry, Keitaro. It's good that you have been able to come up with a solution. However, the whole class has not yet been oriented with the problem. Let's give them a question that we have indeed tackled and we should be able to give equal chances that way. I'm sure if you can answer linear equations with two variables, you can also answer linear equations with one variable."
My professor erased the board and replaced a new question. I read the new problem. Unfortunately, instead of the wits that should flow to my brain, my frustration gave way and I lost my edge. I found myself clueless over the problem. Inside my head, I was complaining as I realize that I've lost an instant quiz to increase my grade.
We were only given seven minutes for the new do or die question. After thinking it over, I wrote my answer. It's not hundred percent accurate, but it beats having a blank paper.
We were told to exchange papers. The professor wrote down the solution and, piece by piece, number by number, I slowly realized the big mistake that I've done. When the solution was shown, my face turned sour and I could only cover my face from an apparent torture. -- Then the class rejoiced as all of them got the correct answer. As for me, I just wallowed and cried in a corner. "I could've gotten a perfect score... But Noooo..." the majority should benefit, even if there's only one who will take the fall.
posted by: keitaro urashima