These limits are not intended to force you to either extend or to cut short your thinking, but they are meant to give you some guidelines and to encourage discipline and revision. Sometimes you will get excited about an idea or an issue and want to write more. Fine, as long as the paper is thoughtfully structured and carefully written. There may be times when you can say all you need to say in less than the apparent minimum. Fine, as long as your argument is complete and explained fully.
Writing is a process of continuing revision and discovery.
Sometimes you will surprise yourself. We often don't know what we think until we write it out. The papers will be another basis for conversation in the class. You should expect that we will talk about each other's papers in the class, sometimes after they have been submitted, sometimes before they are due. Grading Grades will be based on the papers, the class discussion, and group participation.