Grading

It is self-evidently paramount that you produce your own work containing your own thoughts. Please see the WSU Academic Integrity statement and my comments.

This class is structured around actively discussing the texts of our course - in class and in papers. There will be five short writings, and one presentation in class (see the numbered topics).

The writings and the presentation will be graded according to the sophistication with which they deal with their topics: the thoroughness of analysis, the scope of thought, and the meticulousness of their composition. (Suggested length of each paper: 4 pages typed, double-spaced.) Keep all writings and your presentation hand-out in a portfolio (a slim, soft-sided folder with inside pockets.) A hand-out displaying the structure and content of the presentation is required.

A comparative approach is appreciated relating the text in focus to other texts, or aspects of the course, or modern life as we know it.

Final grade will be assessed according to the final grade grid, and will be determined by:

(1) 5 ESSAYS [50%]
(2) ONE IN-CLASS PRESENTATION [20%]
(3) ACTIVE PARTICIPATION [30%]

Re. (1): Each of the FIVE ESSAYS (4 pages each) should be considered a critical contemplation and discussion of the texts involved. I will look for the following elements when evaluating your writings:

• Analytical precision. Consult the critical thinking guidelines for information about structure and suggestions for areas of analytical inquiry. The Final Grade Grid also outlines overall productive dimensions of writing.
• Insightful, creative thinking. Create connections between various characters and elements in your interpretation of the text (or texts), and/or between your interpretation of the text and e.g. comporable elements in our contemporary world.
• Research. Sometimes a scholarly opinion may be just what is needed to provide a fruitful perspective to discussion, analysis, or interpretation! Or, researching a historical background to something creates great context for interpretation and understanding. Even in limited measure researching such perspectives will strengthen your paper.
• Fluent, expressive language, and a coherent structure, will be rewarded. (See critical thinking guidelines)

Please do not hesistate to contact me if you have questions or concerns about any of these points! (Honors Hall 130D; 335-7694; kimander@wsu.edu)

Essay #1 due Monday 1.29
Essay #2 due Tuesday 2.20
Essay #3 due Friday 3.9
Essay #4 due Monday 4.9
Essay #5 due Monday 4.30

(Topics will be provided)

Re. (2): THE PRESENTATION is a 20 minute presentation of a fictional saga-text or factual text. Sign up for one of the 14 numbered presentation topics. First come, first served! The presentation includes a 1-2 page handout to all class participants detailing the presentation. The handout should provide an overview of the text and at least three questions for further discussion.

• Make sure you structure your time well to present essential perspectives and points while leaving enough time for questions and discussion. While you should aim at presenting for approximately 20 minutes, it is my expectation that you as the presenter are willing to entertain questions from the audience, including myself, during the presentation. I expect you to be able to defend your perspectives while productively engaging other perspectives. In such case the total time of the presentation most likely will stretch beyond 20 minutes, and your role in part becomes 'leader of the discussion.' Resume your presentation when a question has been answered.

The presentation will be graded according to the following criteria:

1. Enthusiasm for your role as presenter.
2. Understanding the text(s).
3. Evidence of research and independent, critical evaluation of the text(s).
4. Willingness to pose and answer questions.
5. A well-structured presentation including a 1-2 page hand-out accounting for all facets of the presentation including three questions for further discussion.

Re. (3): THE OPEN MIND-REQUIREMENT: This seminar is requires lively discussion of the material. ACTIVE PARTICIPATION in discussions strengthens the impression of an engaged and well-prepared student! Consider this class an excellent forum for exercising verbal skills! Two well-excused absences (informed of in advance!) during the course of the semester will be tolerated without ramifications for final grade. 'Ramifications' may include writing a short make-up paper.

All writings (and the presentation hand-out) must be kept in a portfolio. THE PORTFOLIO itself must be a slim, soft-sided folder with inside pockets (color optional. Kindly write your name on the front.) The portfolio must be turned in with both the new and the “old” written assignments together for comprehensive review. The completed portfolio containing all writings is due Monday, April 30, 2007, for final grade review.
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