Your learning in this course will be evaluated in the following ways:
4 Writing Projects: 80%
Preparation/Participation: 20%
Descriptions of the different writing assignments for this semester can be found on this website in the section on writing.
Additional information about preparation and participation can be found on this website in the sections about Class Format and Reading.
In general, grades will be assigned according to the following criteria:
Writing
A: Your writing portfolio is complete. Your portfolio cover letter describes and reflects in some detail on your learning to date as represented by the contents of your portfolio. The other work included exceeds expectations and requirements given in the assignments.
B: Your portfolio is complete. Your portfolio cover letter describes your learning to date as represented by the contents of your portfolio, and provides some (but not extensive) reflection and analysis. The majority of other pieces in your portfolio demonstrate a solid working understanding of the expectations and requirements given in the assignments.
C: Your portfolio is complete. Your portfolio cover letter provides minimal description and little reflection or analysis of your portfolio writing and your learning to date. The majority of other pieces included meet the minimum expectations and requirements given in the assignments or struggle to understand the material.
D: Portfolio was incomplete.
F: Portfolio was not submitted, or submitted late without advance notice and permission from me.
Preparation and Participation
A: You are a regular contributor to class discussion, active in small groups, and an active participant on the class blog (you comment regularly on others’ posts, and you have contributed substantive posts beyond the ones required for homework). You complete assignments on time. You have no unexcused absences.
B: On most days, you contribute to class discussion, and you are active in small groups. While not a regular contributor to the class blog, you always participate thoughtfully in discussions when required, and sometimes also voluntarily. You complete assignments on time. You have no more than than 2 unexcused absences.
C: You only contribute to class discussion when called on, and your responses demonstrate that you are prepared and have been following the discussion. You are relatively quiet in small groups and on the class blog. You have 3 or more late or missing assignments. You have 4 unexcused absences.
D: You do not voluntarily participate in class discussions, are silent in groups, and your responses when you’re called on reflect minimal to poor preparation and/or engagement. You regularly turn in late assignments. You have 5 unexcused absences.
F: You have 6 or more unexcused absences. (See Course Policies.)