Grading Policy
Essays: 50% of Grade
Basic Skills classes are Pass/Fail and 1201 is graded. However, you
will get a single grade in this course because it really is one course, even
though it's officially two. If you get a C+, then your 1201 grade will be
C+ and your Basic Skills grade will be Pass. Each of the five essays counts 10% of the essay
grade, though later essays count slightly more than earlier ones, especially if
there is improvement. All essays require a new metatext with each
draft. All drafts must be e-mailed to me two hours before the start of
class, not as an attachment. In the subject line indicate the homework
assignment (e.g., Essay 1, draft 2; Hart response). Essays will not be
accepted after the due date unless you have made an arrangement prior to class
with me.
Self-Assessment: 5%
Metatexts for each draft of each essay.
Self-reflection (2-3 pages) at mid-term using language of
writing and reading process and essay evaluation developed in class during the term. Student examples.
Informal Reading-Related Assignments: 15%
These will include double-entry journal assignments, summaries, and other
assignments that relate to readings in The Presence of Others.
Participation in the Life of the Classroom: 15%
To be negotiated in class.
English Department Attendance Policy
College English I is a writing workshop, which means that the work we do in
class is an essential component of the course. This includes in-class writing
assignments, note-taking, peer review, and group work. Students with more
than 6 absences, either excused or unexcused, will have failed to complete a
substantial number of these writing assignments, and will therefore be unable to
pass College English I. Because 0130 only meets twice a week, only 4
absences are allowed.
In all cases, unexcused absences lower your grade, as does lateness to
class. I require 3 individual conferences over the
course of the term. Past students have told me that these are especially
valuable. Missing a conference is the same as missing a class and counts
as an absence.
Final Exam: 10%
Self-reflection, using language of
writing process and essay evaluation developed in class during the term, that
documents your learning over the course of the term.
Writing Center Attendance: 5%
0-3 visits = F 4 visits = D
5 visits = C 6 visits = B-
7 visits = B+ 8 or more visits = A
Visit the Writing Center homepage
to learn more about this important resource.