Since we will be working extensively with documentation, none of you should have a problem with this or the second kind of plagiarism, the unacceptable paraphrase. In this second case, you probably document the sources of the information used, but you don't present it in your own words. My hope is that none of you will feel the need to cheat in English 101, but do note that the policy of the School of Mines grants instructors the right to fail students who plagiarize. You're here to improve your writing, not to prove how well you already write, or how much you hate to write. Attend class faithfully, pay attention, participate fully in class activities.
First impressions are hard to break.
Don't wait until after a so-so first essay to show me how well you can do. Give me your best work possible right from the start and use revision opportunities to build on writing strengths, not for damage control. If something is unclear, ask questions. You have the right to understand. If you have a problem of any kind that means you'll miss class or a deadline, tell me about it.