The final exam will include a comprehensive question to answer, one which will require that you synthesize or provide your own interpretation of the assigned material. Not so self-explanatory as one might think. Participation means more than just attendance. Those who choose not to participate in class can expect to receive below average scores for that portion of the grade. I will assign plusses minuses.
Writing is one of the fundamental skills of history.
I am somewhat more lenient with work produced in-class than work you have done at home. If you have not had much experience writing argumentative papers, I encourage you to avail yourself of the Writing Center. Penalties begin accruing the moment I finish collecting the assignment from students in class. Penalties will be assessed in 24 hour increments. No penalties are given for weekend days since it is impossible to turn in an assignment on those days.