The final grade is the average of the marks given for work presented at each of the group critiques. The class projects, depending on your background and interests, can be quite specific or allow considerable personal freedom. As part of your preparation to paint you should work regularly in a sketchbook that will be due at the end of the term. They re not difficult and rather fun. The 1979 edition may be a bit more expensive, but has better plates.
Art books are expensive, but they are also invaluable.
If you re feeling the least bit flush also bring up catalogues of the work of artists you especially like. If this purchase is beyond you the program can loan you one. These can be expensive, but don't get too fancy. A very standard box of watercolors can be perfectly adequate. Utrecht is a reasonably-priced paint of good quality.