Note on Paper Grades

Hi Class.

Below you will find a general rubric for the grades you earned on the first assignment. Like I said in class, what I was really looking for was the creative incorporation of clear historical themes and issues into your work. A second factor that I considered in the grading was how well your writing and scene worked as a vehicle for the display of your chosen themes. For those of you who had grammatical errors and confusing formats that strayed from the recommended guidles, you will find that it worked against your final grade. In anycase, overall the class did very well on these papers and I was very impressed.

An A grade demonstrates exceptional work that goes beyond mere recitation of content encountered in the class. A student who earns an A synthesizes concepts learned throughout the course of the semester in a way that produces a unique and insightful perspective on the period and the subject at hand. Papers submitted by this student will display nearly perfect grammar, spelling, and composition skills, as well as creative thinking and a firm, thorough grasp of the material. Tests display a deep understanding of the issues involved and will demonstrate an ability to organize and synthesize ideas. To achieve an A, students must consistently attend class and demonstrate preparedness. An A+ is given only in extraordinary circumstances.

A B grade demonstrates consistent work that rises above the level of mere competence in the field. B work reaches beyond the recitation of facts and names, and attempts to analyze and think critically. Papers often contain modest grammatical, spelling, or composition errors, but reflect the standard rules of organization and argumentation. Assignments and tests will contain few if any factual errors, and the interpretation of materials will be accurate. Students who achieve B-level work consistently attend class and demonstrate preparedness.

A C grade demonstrates a basic level of competence with the materials presented in class. C work demonstrates some lack of comprehension or synthesis of the material. Coursework rarely go beyond the recitation of facts and names, and shows little evidence of critical thinking. Papers often contain errors in grammar, spelling, and composition, as well as flaws in organization or argumentation. Assignments and tests will be marred by factual errors or inaccurate interpretation. Irregular attendance often results in C-level work.