Your final grade will consist of the following elements:

Class Participation: 20%

Midterm Exam: 20%

Class Presentation: 10%

Final Paper Presentation: 10%

Final Paper or Book Review: 20%

Final Exam: 20%

 

 

As a preparation for each class you are expected to (1) attentively read all the assigned texts, (2) formulate your own questions and thoughts about the texts, (3) contemplate and prepare to answer the assigned questions. This class is for the most part a seminar (there will be several lectures though!), and its value to you will directly correspond to your level of active involvement in class discussions.

 

Please be sure to bring a letter of excuse for official or excused absences (illness, religious holidays, family emergencies). After three unexcused absences, your course grade may be lowered by one step (e.g., A to A-, B+ to B, D to F, etc.) Five or more unexcused absences may result in the lowering of your grade by a full letter (e.g., A to B, B to C, etc). Your presence and participation are crucial to the success of this course!

 

You will be responsible for writing a research paper (typed and double-spaced in a 12-point font, standard margins, 5-6 pages long) in which you will explore in depth a particular aspect of a text/texts we discussed in class. The paper will be written on a topic of your choosing (in consultation with me). Therefore, you should be thinking throughout the semester about a possible topic. Remember to keep your ideas focused and specific, and please feel welcome to speak with me during office hours at any stage of the brainstorming or writing process!

The due date for the final paper is firm. Each day late (except in extenuating circumstances) will equal one step down in your grade. For the final paper guidelines and suggested topics please click here.

 

Your final research project can be a book review (typed and double-spaced in a 12-point font, standard margins, 5-6 pages long). You can choose your own book as well (in consultation with me). For a list of suggested books and review writing guidelines click here.

 

During the semester you will be expected to give two oral presentations. (1) Each student will present one of the works from our reading list and lead the class in a discussion of it.

(2) Besides the grade for your final research project, you will also be graded on a short

presentation based on your paper or review. Your final project presentations will take place during the last two classes.

 

The midterm and final examinations will cover the contents of class lectures, discussions, and assigned readings throughout the semester. For the midterm exam outline and topics please click here. For the final exam essignments please click here.