Learning Objective 2.

1: Analyze computations to determine which ratios are above

their industry averages.

Analysis only partially demonstrates which of the 11 ratios are above their industry
average.
Rationales are furnished for ratios selected as being above industry average, but are
weak or they are not provided.

Learning Objective 2.2: Analyze computations to determine which ratios are below
their industry averages.

Analysis only partially demonstrates which of the 11 ratios are below their industry average.
Rationales are furnished for ratios selected as being under industry average, but are weak, or they
are not provided.

Learning Objective 3.1: Determine specific ways for a company to improve financial
performance over time.

Ways in which the company can plan to improve below industry average ratio
performance over time are furnished, but they are not well explained.
At least one way for each ratio identified as being below industry average is not vetted.
Annual targets over the next 3 years to catch up with or surpass industry averages are
not or only partially identified for ratios designated as being substandard.

Learning Objective 3.2: Present rationales as to why recommendations for

improvement in financial ratio performance will be effective.

Provides some rationales for some of the ways in which the company can improve below
industry average ratio performance over time.
Rationale does not include why time horizon selected and annual improvement targets
are reasonable for the company to achieve.

Learning Objective 4.1: Identify salient limitations of use of ratio analysis

exclusively.

Fewer than three limitations of using financial ratios analysis exclusively to gauge overall
financial health are clearly identified.
Explanations of each limitation identified are provided, but are not specific or stated
clearly.
Explanations are not in the context of the chosen company’s situation.

Technology PS 3.2: Apply the features of Excel to communicate information

effectively

Excel spreadsheet has some formatting issues and is difficult to interpret.

Criterion Feedback
When calculating each Company Financial Ratio Result, you need to use the
Excel Formula Function in your Excel Spreadsheet. The industry averages
listed in the Excel Template need to be updated in your Excel Spreadsheet
and in Table 1. Please review IBIS World Database for Updated Industry
Averages

Critical Thinking PS 5.1: Analyze assumptions and fallacies.

Response is weak in assessing the reasonableness of assumptions in a given argument.

Response does not adequately identify and discuss the implications of fallacies or logical
weaknesses in a given argument.

Criterion Feedback
I would suggest you use a few academic databases to locate one additional
primary (academic) reference, like an article from a journal, etc. for critical
thinking analysis. Financial filings should be obtained at SEC.gov.

Critical Thinking PS 5.2: Generate reasonable and appropriate assumptions.

Response does not adequately present and discuss key assumptions in an original
argument

Critical Thinking PS 5.3: Assess multiple perspectives and alternatives.

Response does not identify nor adequately consider multiple perspectives or
alternatives.
Critical Thinking PS 5.4: Use problem-solving skills.

Response presents solutions, but they are ineffective in addressing the specific problem.