Assignments

Examinations – 50% (12%, 16%, 22% respectively for each examination)

These exams will cover important concepts and central arguments of material we have covered up to the class period prior to the review class period for the exam. The exams are entirely written exams and will consist of identifying key concepts and terms, providing interpretive short answer responses, and writing on a critical essay question.

Short Writing Assignments – 25%

Throughout the duration of the course, I will spontaneously ask you to show your knowledge of course readings for the day, provide me with your understanding and interpretation of the text, give a critical analysis of a central passage or idea, and/or explain your own position(s) in relationship to the authors or other positions brought up in class discussion. These assignments will take the form of one of the following: an short writing exercise, a short take-home essay or a contribution to our blog or wiki. Notes: The lowest score will be dropped in the final evaluation. Also, late short writing assignments will not be accepted.

Reading Responses – 15%

You are responsible for twice turning in a response on a reading of your choice. Start with notifying the instructor at least one class period prior to the date we will be covering the reading in class. The length of this response depends on your form of delivery (i.e. 500 words written, three minutes audio/video). The focus should be on getting clear about key concepts, developing your interpretation to part of an argument covered in that reading and/or examining those areas lacking in clarity and understanding. You are free to email the instructor files for this assignment, to comment on our course blog, to post something on our course wiki, or to hand in something physical. Whichever way you choose, this assignment is due on or before the class period of the chosen reading.

Reflective Essay – 10%

A 3-4 page paper outlining your own reflective understanding or beliefs about an area of philosophy we've covered in this course (from a list provided by the instructor after Easter break). This paper can take a narrative, critical, creative or exploratory form. This paper will be due at the start of our final examination time.