Criteria for evaluation include ordinary standards of good writing (clear expression; accurate punctuation, grammar, and spelling; unity of essay as a whole) and meeting specifications of individual assignments. Assignments should be handed in on or before announced deadlines.

Grades will be assigned according to normal university standards (PDF).

A = 3.4 – 4.0 = 90-100%

A designates excellent work that fulfills the requirements of the assignment and contains no errors. The student correctly uses relevant theoretical terms and concepts, makes well-supported inferences, and clearly and imaginatively articulates the implications of her/his reasoning.

B = 2.4 – 3.3 = 80-89%

B designates very good work that fulfills the requirements of the assignment and contains no errors. The student correctly uses relevant theoretical terms and concepts, usually offers supported inferences, and articulates the implications of her/his reasoning.

C = 1.4 – 2.3 = 70-79%

C designates average work that fulfills the requirements of the assignment and contains no errors. The student uses some relevant theoretical terms and concepts correctly, and may include some irrelevant concepts. Inferences are imprecise, and implications are not clearly articulated.

D = 0.7 – 1.3 = 60-69%

D designates poor work that does not meet the quality requirements of the assignment. The student uses relevant theoretical terms and concepts incorrectly, offers vague and/or unsupported inferences, and does not clearly articulate the implications of her/his reasoning.

F = 0.0-0.6 = 0-59%

F designates failing work, and/or work that is not handed in.

All assignments must be completed to earn a course grade of 2.0 or higher.

I have tried to devise a fair system of grading in which students and instructor alike know, from the very beginning, what will count for how much. Accordingly, there will be no “extra credit” given, no special consideration to people in trouble toward the end of the term, as such special treatment is unfair to the other students who have been working conscientiously all along. It is my belief that your time is better spent studying the basic material of the course in preparation for assignments, discussions, and exams than on throwing together an extra-credit paper.

Your course grade will be based on successful completion of the assignments listed here, weighted as follows: