15-418/15-618: Parallel Computer Architecture and Programming, Spring 2026: Assignments

Programming Assignments

The programming assignments are the heart of this course. Much of what you learn in this course will be through completing these assignments.

• All programming assignments are due 11:59pm on the due date shown.
• The late penalty is 10% per day.
• Each student has 5 late-day points for use during the semester. Use them wisely.
• A one-person team can extend a programming assignment by one day using one point.
• A two-person team can extend a programming assignment by one day using two point (either one from each student, or two from a single student).
• You can submit assignments at most 3 days late.
• All assignments are handed out via GitHub and turned in using Autolab and Gradescope.

Programming Assignment Schedule

Written Assignments

• Written assignments will be distributed and handed in via Canvas.
• Written assignments are to be completed individually (not in groups).
• Because peer grading is done anonymously, please do not put your name on your assignment writeup.
• There are no late days for written assignments (they must be submitted on time).
• There are two deadlines for each written assignment:
  • the deadline for submitting your answers; and
  • the deadline for completing your peer grading of other written assignments.
• To be eligible to participate in peer grading, you must submit your answers on time.
• By 9am on the morning after you submit your answers, Canvas will assign you three randomly-chosen peers for whom you will provide grading feedback.
• Before you begin peer grading, study the solutions to the assignments very carefully: a significant part of the learning experience for these written assignments is learning the solutions well enough to be able to grade other people's assignments effectively.
• Use the rubric (provided in Canvas) to assign points; in addition, provide constructive written feedback.
• To receive any credit on this assignment, you must do a reasonable job of providing this peer feedback (including both scores and written feedback).
• Assuming that you do submit your assignment and provide your peer reviews on time, your score will be calculated as follows:
  • 1/3: submitting a reasonable set of solutions on time
  • 1/3: doing a reasonable job of peer grading others
  • 1/3: average score assigned to you by your peers

Written Assignment Schedule