Writing:

Two short papers—

(1)a first paper of 600-900 words (due 9/22) and

(2)a second paper of 1200-1500 words (due 10/22)

—on topics arising from the texts you read (I will assign the general form of the paper and the type of topic, but the specific topic will be your choice); and

(3)a third paper of 1800-2100 words (due 12/3)

developing your own views on a topic related to what you have read.

Exam:

A final

(4)essay exam

testing your grasp of a range of ideas that have appeared during the course. (You will know in advance the ideas for which you will be responsible.)

Participation:

Regular, prepared, and active

(5)participation in class discussion

and timely completion of assignments (perhaps including occasional short ungraded writing assignments).

Your final grade will be based on these in the following way: 12%, 18%, and 25% for the papers, 25% for the final exam, and 20% for participation.

As part of my evaluation of your participation, I will be keeping a record of your attendance. You will be automatically excused if you notify me in advance that you will miss a class (e-mail or voice-mail messages are fine). After the fact, I will expect you to have a good reason. Due dates for the papers are subject to negotiation. I set a default due date for the class, but I am willing to set individual due dates (within reason) for those who find that inconvenient. My policy on missed deadlines is similar to that on missed classes: I’ll re-negotiate the deadline (again within reason) if I hear in advance; but after the fact, I’ll expect an excuse. Unexcused missed deadlines will have an effect on your participation grade.