Martin Luther King Holiday. Participation is very important for developing and testing your own views on the issues. Furthermore, the course is based on group inquiry and therefore requires sharing of opinions and insights. The quality of your contributions is what matters, not the quantity. If you are quiet or shy, try to contribute to the discussion as best you can.
Some students are reluctant to raise their hands but willingly speak when called upon.
If that is your situation, please let me know. I expect you to attend every class. Unexcused absences will adversely affect your grade. The quizzes will occur at the beginning of the class hour, so you should make sure you are on time. These 4-6 page papers provide an opportunity for deeper reflection on some of the issues.