2009 Module 2 solved Mainline calcs

[PJW]

OK I now understand you are interested in generic as well as that particular question; on that basis then yes most of it is fine.

If you could have a go at amending it specifically for this question by taking on board the feedback given, that would demonstrate to me that you understand or if there is anything on which you need more clarity.

I think you have copied from a good original document intended to explain to a student the calculations.

I agree with Jerry that you cannot go into as much detail as this in the examination; you do need to explain enough to show the examiner your process, you do not need to go to the level that you do when trying to explain to a student who is not already familiar.

Also it is clear that although you changed the numbers appropriately, you were following the same step by step process, but didn't recognise that what you were asked in this question was not precisely the same as the example on which you based your answer. Hence some of what you did was unnecessary and other bits not 100% right.

Your answer does not convey to me that you actually understand 'the big picture" of what you are attempting to achieve from these calculations; the fact that you calculate that 4 aspect signalling would achieve the requirement when you have already calculated that 3 aspect signalling does, certainly suggest that you don't comprehend.

See attached document with amendments and comments, HOWEVER
I do recommend that you read the explanation of braking and headway in the Mod 2 Study Pack on the DVD. You must achieve a base level of understanding because this is what the exam is about, not primarily the ability to plug numbers into quoted formulae and methodologies learned by rote and then reproduced in the exam- I am afraid that your answer gives me that impression.

You will of course get some marks for what you have done, but the examiners know what they are looking for, and so you cannot "pull wool over their eyes" and hope to get through without really fully understanding what you are doing. It was a worthwhile exercise that has no doubt progressed your learning but you now need to go and read the theory and make sure you know how these calculations relate to it. Then have a go at another question and hopefully improve by so doing.


I hope the above and the comments in the paper don't not seem too harsh; the written word can sometimes seem to be. When in face-to-face communication it is easier to judge how it comes across. Certainly do not want to be discouraging, but you specifically asked for a judgement and advice and I have attempted to do so in plain language. I have given a reaction that I believe would accord with that of the examiners; better you have the opinion now so that you can learn from it rather than not know and be disappointed in exam result and not understand. Well done for being brave enough to put your attempt up for scrutiny, hopefully to assist both you and others

Ambika,

It seems a very comprehensive attempt. However, you need to be aware of the time you can take in the exam. I would suggest there is too much effort to produce the amount of text and calculations.

Therefore, I would suggest that practicing exam technique would be of real benefit. A simple rule is note the marks that can be allocated. For headway calculation it is relavitely small compared to the overall total. Therefore, exam technique says spend your time where you can gain the most marks.

However, if you can deliver speed, quality and quatity, kudos.

Jerry

Thank for valuable feedback. In examination, time allocation for each questions is very important i will practice according it.
Please look into the answer paper (calculations wise) is the proper way what I followed according to question asked. If any correction is required please correct it & suggest me accordingly.

hi,
Thank you very much for your suggesion & feedback on my paper.
Ya correct we have to understand the concept whilst when doing the calculations. While anwering to this paper i was not thinking that i have to anwer only for question asked in the paper but i want to know the method what i have followed is proper or not. In forum i have seen so many people solved in different methods i do know which is the correct method? but it is not copied from anywhere else according to my understanding i solved the paper so i have requested you to correct the paper.
Very much thanks

Regards,
Ambika