Additional Information on Grading Policies

Summary: The course front door provides a quick summary of the weights of various components of the course. The narrative on teaching and learning provides some general perspectives on Sam's approach to teaching. This document provides a bit more detail on how we will be grading this class.

Contents:

• Late Assignments
• Class Participation

Late Assignments

Our experience shows that students who turn in work late learn significantly less than students who turn material in on time. (We are sure about cause and effect.) Hence, we strongly discourage late assignments. Unless prior arrangements have been made, assignments are due within five minutes of the start of class. After that they are considered late. Late assignments are penalized approximately one letter grade per day late (or fraction thereof).

Because we are concerned about your health and well being, we will waive the late penalty if (1) you start the assignment at least three days in advance of the due date; (2) you get to sleep by one a.m. the night before the assignment is due; (3) you expend a reasonable amount of effort to complete the assignment by that time; (4) you turn in a form attesting to facts (1), (2), and (3) when the assignment is due; and (5) you talk to us ASAP about any problems you've had on the assignment.

Class Participation

As Sam suggests in his statement on teaching and learning, we don't think you learn the material as well if you don't participate actively in the class. We also know that if you're not here, you can't participate. Hence, a portion of your grade is based on participation and attendance. Students who miss no more than two classes and who regularly answer questions or make comments in class receive 90 for participation. Missing 3-5 classes results in a 10 point penalty. Missing 6-8 classes results in a 25 point penalty. Missing 9 or more classes results in a 50 point penalty. Particularly good answers, comments, and questions result in bonus points for participation. (A few students with schedule conflicts have arranged to regularly miss one day per week. Such students will not be penalized for missing those days.)