Requirements and Policies

Class Discussion Leader
You and at least one partner will lead class discussion for at least fifteen minutes of class during the term.  I’ll meet with you prior to class to discuss your ideas, your plans, and the readings.  To prepare for your leadership role, you and your partner(s) will need to analyze the readings thoroughly, devise a list of possible discussion questions, research any additional contexts relevant to the questions you want to raise, and plan which ones you will address and how you will approach them.

Close Reading
You will write one carefully crafted short essay that will engage in a close reading of the text of your choice. You must turn in your close reading no later than Friday, 4 March, or before we discuss the text in class – whichever comes first.  For those texts that we will discuss over multiple class periods, you must turn in your essay before the relevant section of the text is discussed in class.  The paper should analyze one passage in order to make a larger point about the text.

Outline & Annotated Bibliography
In preparation for your research paper in this course, you will prepare a research outline with a working bibliography of sources that you have already consulted and summarized (the “annotated” part).  This assignment gives you a road map for completing your research and writing, and it will help you find a working thesis before the paper is due. I will provide a format guide in a few weeks.

Research Paper
You will be required to write a 10-12 page research paper, which will be due during the University’s scheduled final for the class.  I will provide you with detailed information about the requirements for the assignment as well as information about how to conduct your research.

Final Exam
Identification of passages discussed at length in class, short answers, and definition of key terms.

Attendance
Attendance is required. Missing class will not only adversely affect your participation grade, but it may also affect your ability to successfully complete the required assignments. More than three unexcused absences will result in the sacrifice of one letter grade; more than six absences: course failure.

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