I am using a flexible system that gives you almost complete control over the grade you earn in this class. My goal, actually, is to change your view of grading, at least as it applies to your pursuit of better reading and writing skills. Your grade in this course will, very simply, reflect how hard you worked at making yourself a better reader and writer than you are right now.
You'll participate in discussions, produce reading notes, and compose quote responses. Timely completion of all assignments accounts for 600 pts. The conference presentation is worth a maximum of 400 pts. A total of 900-999 points equals an "A" in the course (800-899 equals a "B" and 700-799 equals a "C").
Timely completion means (a) meeting deadlines and length requirements for assignments and (b) following guidelines for assignments. Why? Most students want a course grade to reflect their effort in a course; this approach to grading rewards effort without sacrificing academic rigor.
