Additional Class Policies

OFFICE HOURS
Students are encouraged to come to my office hours. These hours are reserved for answering your questions and concerns, so please feel free to stop in. Topics suitable for discussion during office hours include, but are not limited to, help revising assignments, clarification on assignments, brainstorming on assignment topics, concerns about commentary and/or grades, and any other general class related questions. If you cannot attend these office hours, you may set up an appointment with me via email or brief after-class conversation. During an office hour visit the classroom conduct rules apply, including the restriction on cell phone use and texting.


EMAIL
Our primary source of communication outside of the classroom will be through email. Since I teach more than one course, when you email me, make sure that you include your section number in the title and the subject of your inquiry. If you are sending an email attachment, make sure that your name is part of the attached document title. Also, it is important that you adhere to proper email etiquette: Make sure your messages have a professional tone. In addition, only use email to ask quick questions. If you are confused about an assignment or would like some explanation about a grader’s comments on an assignment, you will need to meet with me during office hours. If you are having technical difficulties with Raider Writer, email me right away and let me know. It is possible you could encounter technical issues, so avoid waiting until the last minute to submit your assignments. I will check my email between 8:00am and 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.  Please allow at least 24 hours for a response.  I will respond to any emails that I receive over the weekend on Monday.


CLASS PARTICIPATION
Active class participation is expected from all students in order to succeed in this course. Students will receive a participation grade at the end of the semester that will be an average of the grades accumulated over the semester for class participation. In order to promote preparedness for effective discussion and class activities, there will be a quiz over the reading each week. Class participation also includes completed in-class activities and homework (other than that listed on your Raider Writer Syllabus).


GRADE APPEALS
If you feel your assignment has been unfairly or incorrectly evaluated, you may appeal the grade. To appeal a grade, you must complete the following steps within 7 days of receiving the assigned grade:
1. Draft an argument in favor of the grade you feel you should have earned on the assignment. The argument should include an honest evaluation of the assignment’s strengths and weaknesses, both in general and in regard to the assessment criteria. This argument must be thorough and well thought-out, written in an appropriate tone, and be carefully proofread. You must include direct quotations from the assignment criteria and instructions, the Critical Thinking Rubric, the grader's commentary, and your own writing.
2. Submit a copy of the argument to me within 7 days of the document being graded via email with “Grade Appeal” in the subject line. 
I will review your argument and your submission will be re-evaluated according to the assignment criteria and Critical Thinking Rubric. I will reply with a decision as soon as possible. There is no re-appeal process. My decision is final. You are allowed to appeal two grades during the semester. Draft grades may not be appealed.


CLASS CONDUCT RULES AND PROCEDURES
Be prompt. Class begins on time, therefore a student is considered tardy if he or she is more than 10 minutes late and absent if more than 20 minutes late.
Be prepared with all supplies and textbooks. Students are expected to bring their textbooks to every class.
Be kind and respectful. All actions should reflect kindness and respect for both the instructor and all the other students. I will not tolerate rude or disrespectful behavior directed at any member of this class.
Be mentally present. Use of electronic devices during class will not be tolerated. If your phone rings or if I see you using a cell phone, iPod, or other electronic device during class, you will be asked to leave and will be counted absent or tardy for the day. 
Actively participate in class. Class is a much more enjoyable experience when we engage in class discussion. I reserve the right to call on any student to participate.