Course Policies
In these days of computer-mediated writing, there are no excuses for the two following problems: 1) late papers due to computer crashes, and 2) poor spelling and grammar. Regarding the former, claiming a “computer crash” is the basically the same as telling me that your dog ate your homework. This is not a valid excuse if you are backing up your materials on hard drives or the UVM mainframe. If indeed this has happened, I expect you to provide a note from a computer specialist explaining the problem; otherwise your late paper will be evaluated in terms of my late paper policy. Regarding the latter problem, use your spellcheck option and proofread – I will mark you down for poor spelling and grammar.
My policy on late papers is that I do not accept them, although I will make an exception if you are willing to receive a lower grade. Written work is due in class. Anything not turned in during class is late, and for every 24 hour period your paper is late, you drop a full grade from the grade I feel your paper would receive if it were not late. For example, if your ‘A’ paper is not turned in at class, you will receive a ‘B’ if it is turned in within the next 24 hours. The next day, your grade drops to a ‘C.’ The day after that, it is a ‘D.’ If you turn in a paper late and expect to receive a non-reduced grade, you must provide evidence of an emergency.
Policy on Religious Holidays
If you will miss a class because of a religious holiday, the University policy is that you must submit in writing to me by the end of the second full week of classes your documented religious holiday schedule for the semester. I will permit students who miss work for the purpose of religious observance to make up this work.