Grading

Course Requirements:

Four typed (formal) papers: Papers are generally 4-6 pages. Each paper will arise from our reading, informal writing, and class discussion. Before turning papers in for a grade, each essay will have been revised following instructor feedback and again following peer critique. When you turn your paper in for a grade, you will include all of the drafts that preceded the final version.

Informal writing: This includes freewriting, prewriting, response papers, and journal writing.

Conferences: You are required to attend at least three one-on-one conferences with the instructor. Meeting times and place will be announced.

Grading: In order to pass this class, you must do all of the work, including readings, (which may be checked with pop quizzes) informal writing, and drafting; and participate in peer critiques and in-class discussions. Therefore, if you are absent during any class period, contact the instructor and/or a classmate immediately.

Formal Papers--60%

Final Project and Portfolio--20%

Participation and Peer Critiques--10%

Informal Writing etc.--10%

Grading Criteria

A    Excellent work, outstanding in all ways

Begins with an engaging introduction, which sets a clear purpose for the paper. It is well-organized around original, quality ideas that are fully explained. The arguments are logical and well-developed, and demonstrate depth of thought and consideration of other perspectives. There is a consistent voice and style, a consideration of audience, and evidence of substantial improvement through the revision process and critiques. Virtually no errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, or spelling exist.

B    Above average, good work

Begins with an introduction that sets a purpose for the paper. It is organized around quality ideas that are explained in sufficient detail. The arguments are logical and fairly developed, and demonstrate adequate thinking and some awareness of other perspectives. There is some sense of voice and an emerging sense of style, an awareness of audience, and evidence of improvement through the revision process and critiques. Errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, and spelling do not interfere with reading.

C    Average, typically solid work

Begins with an introduction that connects to the rest of the paper. It demonstrates some sense of organization around the ideas it is explaining. The arguments can be followed, although they need further development. It demonstrates thought about the writer's perspective. The writing is straightforward and understandable, and does not alienate the audience. Corrections have been made based on critique. Errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, and spelling interrupt reading occasionally.

D    Below average, needing improvement

The purpose of the paper is not clear from the beginning. It lacks organization and does not present ideas in detail. The arguments need to be clarified and do not demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the topic. The writing is at times difficult to follow and disregards the audience. With few changes after critique, the paper may still be in the rough draft stage. There are frequent errors in mechanics, usage, grammar, and spelling.

F    Failing

The paper does not meet the basic requirements of the assignment.

Late papers are not accepted except under extraordinary circumstances and after prearranged agreements with the instructor.

Absence Policy:

The work you do in this course depends on your collaboration with your classmates through peer reviews and discussions. You are allowed four sick days to use at your discretion. If you miss more than four hours of class time, your grade will be lowered by 1/3 of a letter grade for each day of absence beyond the four. If you are absent, you are responsible for what you missed. Excessive tardiness will also lower your grade.

Academic Dishonesty:

Plagiarism is defined by the Ohio University Student Handbook as a Code A offense, which means that [a] student found to have violated any of the following regulations will be subject to a maximum sanction of expulsion, or any sanction not less than a reprimand.... Plagiarism involves the presentation of some other person's work as if it were the work of the presenter. A faculty member has the authority to grant a failing grade...as well as referring the case to the director of judiciaries (10). Any student who chooses to plagiarize will receive a failing grade for the course. Thus, if you are unsure about plagiarism or what it means, talk with your instructor.