More syllabus

src/syllabus.md.hbs

@@ -44,6 +44,8 @@ A good post asks a specific question. Here are some examples of bad posts:
 
 If you need help with a homework problem, for example, be sure to include what you've tried already, exactly where you're stuck, and what you're currently thinking about how to proceed. If you just ask for help without any evidence of effort, we'll punt the question back to you for more details.
 
+Anonymous posting is not enabled on Ed because the instructor has had bad experiences with abuse of this feature. Instead, out goal is to foster an environment where everyone can feel comfortable asking questions as themselves. We encourage everyone to be open and honest about things they do not understand, and we will not tolerate a single iota of ridicule or derision in response to not knowing things. Let's work together to encourage everyone to ask "silly" questions by asking them ourselves!
+
 ## Assignments: Gradescope
 
 You will download homework assignments, upload solutions, and receive grades through [Gradescope][]. Please log in there to see whether you're in the system. If you're not, please send your NetID to the course staff and we'll get you set up.
@@ -133,6 +135,11 @@ an exceptional extension.
 There will be two in-class preliminary exams and a final exam.
 See the [course schedule][schedule].
 
+The prelims are happen in class because the instructor believes evening prelims are cruel and impractical.
+We attempt to make the exams fit comfortably within 50 minutes.
+To whatever extent we misfire and the exam is too long, we account for this difficulty when scaling the scores.
+While we do not "curve" grades in the conventional (*z*-score) sense, we do account for exam difficulty: these exams will be hard, and you should not consider your "raw" score on the prelims to be directly proportional to your letter grade.
+
 Makeup exams must be scheduled within the first three weeks of class.
 Check the schedule now to see if you have a conflict with another
 class and contact the staff immediately to reschedule.