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Course Expectations
This course is one in which you will practice writing. You can expect to write regularly. Writing
is not easy; it takes time, concentration, and a willingness to revise your work. Therefore, you
will need to organize your time accordingly.
Grading:
Course requirements will consist of: written revised essays, in-class writing, homework, class
discussion, word of the day. Grading will be based on a combination of written work including
essays, class activities and participation, and homework. Students must have a grade average of
60%, and satisfactorily complete the three formal papers, to receive a passing grade.
Course Policies
Attendance and Participation
Attendance and class participation are mandatory. You can’t expect to learn what you need to
when you miss class. If missing class is unavoidable, please let me know ahead of time,
otherwise it will be considered unexcused.
Participation is also important. Many days will be spent in discussion of different elements of
writing, and in group work, so come to class prepared and ready to talk to each other. For all
reading assignments you will be responsible for preparing at least one discussion question which
will be used to prompt discussion among the class.
Late Work
I will not accept late work. If you will not be able to attend class on a day when something is
due, please let me know ahead of time. I will only accept work submitted via e-mail in special
circumstances. Otherwise, everything is due in class on the due date.
Devices Policy
It is your responsibility to turn off or put away all cell phones and other electronic devices (this
includes music) while in class (this does not mean put them on silent or vibrate and therefore
enable them to distract you or others in class). Texting under the desk fools no one, and
texting
during class is not allowed.
It is a rude distraction for everyone.
Essay Format
Make sure your assignments (except in-class writing and tests) are typed, double spaced, Times
New Roman 12, 1-inch margins all around. They should have titles (when applicable), the pages
should be numbered and have at least your last name on each page, and they should be
stapled
.
Do not change font size, character spacing, or margins to make your assignments seem
longer.
If you do this I will automatically reduce your grade.
All materials taken from outside sources must be acknowledged using MLA format.