Requirements & Grading

My Expectations of Students

  • Thoughtful preparation for class meetings
  • Attendance at all class meetings and events (unless there is an important reason to miss)
  • Active (and informed) participation in class discussion
  • A good faith effort at all assignments

Assignments

  • Weekly problem sets (from week 2)—30% of final grade. You will be expected to complete a set of questions that we will discuss in small groups each Friday. The questions will be based on classroom content and readings – and be the basis for the exams
  • Two short exams (weeks 4 and 10)—20%. A short quiz based on weekly discussion worksheets
  • Two blog posts—5%. Each student will complete two short blog posts on our class Voices page, one that provides a summary and reflection on some aspect of class, another that comments on a news report or a song or a discussion
  • Final paper (week 13)—15%. This paper will require you to analyze historical forces that have shaped a contemporary issue or event. Questions will be provided. Required sources: 2 primary sources and 2-3 secondary sources, one of which can be the textbook. Length: 5-7 pages
  • Poster presentation (week 14)—5%. A poster presentation of your final paper.
  • Final examination—10%. A cumulative final exam
  • Attendance, professionalism, and participation—10%

Grading policies

Your grade will measure your effort, the level of your thinking and writing, as well as the progress you make across the semester.

We will grade weekly problem sets, blog posts and presentations on a check/check plus/check minus scale, in which a check equals 85 points (a B), a check plus equals 95 points (an A) and a check minus equals 75 points (a C).

We follow the College of Wooster guidelines for grading. A grade in the “A” range (90-100) indicates excellent work, the “B” range (80-89) indicates good work, the “C” range (70-79) indicates adequate work, the “D” range (60-69) indicates a minimal performance. A grade of “F” (below 60) indicates unsatisfactory work or the failure to complete all course work.

A few extra credit opportunities will be given during the semester. Grade penalties will be applied for poor attendance and/or distractions.