These exams will include sections in which you will be asked to define rhetorical terms, identify and briefly comment on the significance of passages from speeches we've read, and write longer responses to questions asking you to synthesize material from the course. We will talk more about these exams in class. Bring bluebooks to class for these exams. Thus, class participation will be informally but clearly reflected in your quizzes, exams, and paper, since these writings will benefit from the clarity of thought and expression and the exchange of ideas which class discussions provoke. In addition, class participation is formally accounted for in your grade for this class.
Some active participation is taken as a given.
Failure to participate at a basic level, including by virtue of excessive absences, will reduce your grade, as will negative or inappropriate participation. I expect you to come to each session prepared, with reading and writing assignments completed. This classroom must be one of mutual respect and open exchange. Essential values which undergird this purpose include civility, dignity, education, equality, freedom, honesty, and safety. . . As members of the University community, students are expected to uphold its values by maintaining a high standard of conduct.