Welcome to the new school year!

Evaluation Guidelines for Papers

Citations:          In-text citations supported by a works cited page.or footnotes Readability:       Interesting to read.
Structure:         Evident, understandable. Excellent transitions from point
                                to point.  Paragraphs support solid topic sentences.
Thesis:             The paper must have a strong thesis well-supported by facts.
Evidence:          Primary source information used to buttress every
                                point with at least one example. Examples support
                                mini-thesis and fit within paragraph.  Excellent integration
                                of quoted material into sentences.
Analysis:          Analysis is fresh and exciting, posing new ways to think of
                                the material.
Logic and argumentation:  All ideas in the paper flow logically; the
                               argument is identifiable, reasonable, and sound.  Author
                               anticipates and successfully defuses counter-arguments;
                               makes novel connections to outside material (from other
                               parts of the class, or other classes).
 Mechanics:      Sentence structure, grammar, and diction excellent;
                               correct use of punctuation and citation style; minimal to no
                              spelling errors; absolutely no run-on sentences or comma
                              splices.

Good Paper           (A-, B+)
 

 Structure:       Generally clear and appropriate, though may wander
                            occasionally.  May have a few unclear transitions, or a few
                            paragraphs without strong topic sentences.
 Evidence:        Examples used to support most points.  Some
                            evidence does not support point, or may appear where
                            inappropriate.  Quotes well integrated into sentences.
 Analysis:           Evidence often related to mini-thesis, though links perhaps
                            not very clear.
 Logic and argumentation:  Argument of paper is clear, usually flows
                            logically and makes sense.  Some evidence that counter-
                            arguments are acknowledged, though perhaps not
                            addressed.  Occasional insightful connections to outside
                            material made.
  Mechanics:       Sentence structure, grammar, and diction strong despite
                            occasional lapses; punctuation and citation style often used
                            correctly.  Some (minor) spelling errors; may have one or
                            two run-on sentences or comma splices.

Borderline Paper   (B/B-)
 

   Structure:  Generally unclear, often wanders or jumps around. Few or
                          weak transitions, many paragraphs without topic sentences.
    Evidence:    Examples used to support some points.  Points
                          often lack supporting evidence, or evidence used where
                          inappropriate (often because there may be no clear point).
                          Quotes may be poorly integrated into sentences.
    Analysis:     Quotes appear often without analysis relating them to topic,
                           or analysis offers nothing beyond the quote.
    Logic and argumentation:  Logic may often fail, or argument may
                           often be unclear.  May not address counter-arguments or
                           make any outside connections.
    Mechanics:  Problems in sentence structure, grammar, and diction
                           (usually not major).  Errors in  punctuation, citation style,
                           and spelling.  May have several run-on sentences or
                           comma splices.

     Structure:  Unclear, often because thesis is weak or non-existent.
                          Transitions confusing and unclear.  Few topic sentences.
      Evidence:   Very few or very weak examples.  General failure
                           to support statements, or evidence  seems to support no
                           statement.  Quotes not integrated into sentences; "plopped
                           in" in improper manner.
      Analysis:     Very little or very weak attempt to relate evidence to
                           argument; may be no identifiable argument, or no evidence
                           to relate it to.
      Logic and argumentation:  Ideas do not flow at all, usually because
                            there is no argument to support. Simplistic view of topic;
                            no effort to grasp possible alternative views.
      Mechanics:  Big problems in sentence structure, grammar, and diction.
                           Frequent major errors in citation style, punctuation, and
                           spelling.  May have many run-on sentences and comma
                           splices.

Plagiarism:  Any evidence of plagiarism will lead to a failing grade,
                even if unintentional.   Your paper must contain proper
                citations to avoid the appearance of cheating.
Content:   Shows obviously minimal lack of effort or comprehension
               of the assignment.  Very difficult to understand owing to
               major problems with mechanics, structure, and analysis.

Expectations for Class Participation

• Reading assignments complete before class, ready to discuss
• Active participation in class discussions.
• Look alive – don’t sit in the back of the room trying to hide or sleep. 
• No laptops or other electronics
• Respect other students' points of view and/or religions.
• Regular attendance
• Minimal or no lateness