Attendance and Participation: The first 30 percent of the grade is composed of attendance, participation in class discussions and writing workshops, genuine engagement with course materials, and respectful interaction with other students. At the start of every class, attendance will be taken. In addition to attending class, students are asked to come prepared with having read the course materials, having questions and critiques in mind, and being ready to speak in class. While students have different approaches to learning, and not everyone likes to be vocal in the space of a classroom, you should be prepared to speak up a minimum of one time during each class in an engaged and respectful way.
Attendance/Class Participation Policy: It is expected that you come to class and that you be on time. You should also be physically, mentally and emotionally prepared to work.
You are allowed a total of 3 absences during the semester. Please note: If you are going to miss class, it is expected that you e-mail PRIOR to class to explain your absence. This is true whether it is your first absence or your sixth absence.
Acceptable Excuses to Miss Class:
- Running a fever, contagious or extremely ill.
- If you are ill, you should go to Health Services and be seen by a doctor.
- A note from Health Services will excuse an absence.
- Family emergencies such as death. (Please note that if you lie to your teachers about a family emergency, you are in violation of the University ethics policy and may be suspended.)
I understand that in any given semester you may become ill or have a family emergency. However, after 3 absences your grade will be lowered without exception. We also expect that you make it a top priority to keep yourself healthy through rest, exercise, hydration and healthy eating. Also, understand that if you miss an in-class rehearsal or presentation, your grade will be more severely impacted.
Number of Absences Grade IF doing “A” work:
0-3 = A 4 = B 5 = C 6 = D 7 or more absences = F
2 LATES = 1 Absence Any LATE of 20 minutes or more counts as a Full Absence
Professional Decorum: It is your responsibility to come to class and be an active participant. This means:
- Coming to class fully prepared as assigned.
- Showing respect for every member of the group.
- A complete commitment and focus to the work each class period. This means paying attention to everyone’s work and the discussions that transpire. If you happen to fall asleep in class, you will be asked to leave the class for the day and you will be charged with one absence.
- Saying YES to feedback!